1inch is a decentralized exchange (DEX) aggregator that sources liquidity from multiple DEXs to offer users the best possible trading rates. Launched in 2020 by Sergej Kunz and Anton Bukov, 1inch enables efficient, low-cost token swaps across various blockchains using a smart routing algorithm that splits trades across multiple platforms to optimize prices and reduce slippage.
At its core, 1inch functions as a powerful tool that automatically finds the most favorable trading paths by scanning dozens of liquidity sources, including Uniswap, SushiSwap, Balancer, Curve, and more. The platform supports multiple networks such as Ethereum, BNB Chain, Polygon, Avalanche, Arbitrum, and Optimism, allowing users to trade seamlessly across the multi-chain DeFi ecosystem.
Beyond aggregation, the 1inch ecosystem includes a liquidity protocol that allows users to provide liquidity and earn fees, as well as a limit order protocol that supports advanced order types and automated trading strategies. The platform also integrates DeFi tools for gas optimization and private transactions, increasing both efficiency and security.
The native token of the platform, 1INCH, serves governance and utility purposes. Token holders can vote on key protocol parameters, participate in staking, and receive potential rewards or fee discounts. This decentralized governance model empowers the community to guide the platform’s evolution.
Security is a major focus for 1inch. All smart contracts are audited, and users retain full custody of their funds, ensuring that transactions are executed only with their explicit approval. The intuitive interface, combined with powerful DeFi integrations, makes 1inch accessible to both novice and experienced users.
