Compound is a decentralised finance (DeFi) protocol that allows for the lending and borrowing of cryptocurrencies without intermediaries. It operates on the Ethereum blockchain, enabling users to earn interest on their crypto deposits through smart contract-managed liquidity pools.
Compound works by allowing users to supply assets to the protocol, which are represented as cTokens. These cTokens increase in value relative to the underlying asset, allowing users to earn interest. The interest rates are determined algorithmically based on the supply and demand for each asset. Users can withdraw their assets or collateral at any time, and COMP token holders can participate in the governance process to propose and vote on changes to the protocol.
Compound can be used for decentralised lending and borrowing, providing a means to earn interest on cryptocurrencies and borrow against them without needing intermediaries. It supports financial services within the DeFi sector, promotes yield farming, and is associated with risk management through partnerships that enhance the protocol's security.
Compound was founded in 2017 by Robert Leshner and Geoffrey Hayes. It launched its first version in 2018 and introduced its governance token, COMP, in 2020. Over the years, it has integrated with major DeFi platforms and undergone significant updates, such as the Compound III upgrade, which streamlined its processes and governance. Compound has grown to be a major DeFi protocol, surpassing significant milestones like $10 billion in total value locked.