Decentralized crypto exchange dYdX has announced the launch of the public testnet for its V4 iteration, marking the completion of a significant milestone in its development roadmap. The release of V4 on the mainnet is expected to bring about “full decentralization” of the exchange.
dYdX announces public testnet for its V4 iteration
The platform operates on the Ethereum and StarkEx networks, distinguishing itself as a decentralized exchange (DEX) since it does not hold custody of users’ funds. However, it differs from automated market-maker DEXs like Uniswap, which rely on on-chain pricing algorithms to match buyers and sellers. dYdX currently features a centralized order book and matching engine that enables market makers to place limit orders.
With the introduction of Version 4, it aims to eliminate its centralized order book and matching engine, achieving complete decentralization without relying on automated market-makers. The protocol intends to accomplish this by running certain components of the application on a separate the network with its validators, allowing the order book to be stored on-chain.
The recent announcement reveals that users can now request testnet funds to explore the dYdX app. This allows users to engage in virtual trades, track profit, and loss, and perform other essential functions of the exchange. Although the capability to test bridging from one network to another is not yet available, it is expected to be implemented during the public testnet phase.
The platform continues to make strides toward the future
Upon the completion of the testnet phase, the dYdX protocol team will proceed to implement the fifth and final milestone on their roadmap. This milestone involves the integration of stablecoins into dYdX and the addition of support for Cosmos Inter-Blockchain Communication (IBC), which will grant Cosmos users access to the app. The launch of V4 is anticipated to follow the successful completion of this final milestone.
Earlier this year, the platform made headlines when it announced the winding down of its services in Canada due to regulatory challenges. In September 2022, the exchange faced criticism from privacy advocates after offering a $25 bonus to new users who could prove they were not bots. However, the promotion was later abandoned.
As dYdX progresses towards its goal of achieving full decentralization with the V4 release, the exchange aims to offer users a truly decentralized trading experience while maintaining a high level of efficiency and security. By leveraging its unique network architecture and innovative approach, dYdX strives to establish itself as a prominent player in the evolving landscape of decentralized exchanges.
As the crypto industry continues to evolve, the success of projects like dYdX’s V4 iteration will contribute to the broader adoption of decentralized finance (DeFi) and showcase the potential of blockchain technology to revolutionize traditional financial systems. With each milestone achieved, dYdX brings the vision of a decentralized and inclusive financial ecosystem one step closer to reality.
