DeFi Perpetual Futures Gain Traction as Altcoin Markets Stagnate
Traders are pivoting to perpetual futures amid lackluster altcoin performance, with decentralized platforms now dominating volumes. Leverage ratios peaked at 10% earlier this year before retreating to 4% by October's liquidation events.
Next-generation protocols like Hyperliquid and Aster are fueling growth through Layer 2 solutions, offering non-custodial trading with microscopic fees. This infrastructure evolution enables unprecedented leverage—often 50x or more—without expiration dates.
Coinbase researchers note the 24/7 nature of crypto derivatives is attracting traditional equity traders. The sector's maturation reflects both increased risk appetite and improved decentralized trading rails.