Blockchain & Crypto

When you step into Blockchain & Crypto, a network of distributed ledgers that records transactions without a central authority. Also known as decentralized finance, it drives a wave of digital assets and services that change how money moves.

One of the core pieces of this ecosystem is Cryptocurrency, digital money secured by cryptographic techniques. Blockchain gives cryptocurrency its trust factor, letting anyone verify balances without a bank. Another pillar is Ethereum, a programmable blockchain that runs smart contracts. Ethereum requires smart contracts to automate agreements, which opens the door for complex applications. Those applications live in the world of DeFi, decentralized finance platforms that operate on blockchain. DeFi leverages blockchain to remove intermediaries, letting users lend, borrow, and trade directly.

A more technical angle comes from MEV, Maximal Extractable Value, the profit miners can take from ordering transactions. MEV influences Ethereum transaction ordering, creating risks for users who might pay higher fees or see delayed trades. Understanding MEV helps you spot hidden costs when you use DeFi apps on Ethereum. The relationship between MEV and Ethereum shows how subtle nuances in block production can ripple through the whole crypto market.

All these pieces—cryptocurrency, Ethereum, DeFi, and MEV—fit together like a puzzle. The ecosystem encompasses decentralized finance and requires smart contracts to run. When you grasp how each entity works, you can navigate the space with confidence and avoid common pitfalls.

What You’ll Find Below

Below this intro you’ll find a curated list of articles that dive deeper into each topic. From a clear explanation of MEV in Ethereum to practical guides on using DeFi platforms, the collection aims to give you both the theory and the tools you need. Keep reading to see how the concepts connect and what actionable steps you can take next.