Injective is a layer-1 blockchain designed specifically for decentralized finance (DeFi) applications. It is built to provide an open and interoperable infrastructure that powers next-generation DeFi solutions, including decentralized spot and derivatives exchanges, prediction markets, lending protocols, and more. Injective uses a Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus mechanism and aims to deliver fast, secure transactions with low costs and instant transaction finality.
Injective operates as a decentralized blockchain that leverages the Cosmos SDK framework and Tendermint-based PoS consensus mechanism. This setup enables high transaction speeds and robust security. It supports advanced smart contracts through CosmWasm and offers cross-chain interoperability, allowing seamless interactions with Ethereum, Solana, and other IBC-enabled blockchains. Injective also features a decentralized MEV-resistant on-chain order book and supports Ethereum-compatible smart contracts.
Injective serves multiple use cases, particularly in the DeFi sector. Key applications include:
Founded in 2018 by Eric Chen and Albert Chon, Injective was initially conceived as a decentralized derivatives exchange addressing common issues like poor liquidity and low transaction speeds. It began as a layer-2 solution on Ethereum but transitioned to a standalone layer-1 blockchain utilizing the Cosmos SDK and Tendermint PoS. Since its launch in November 2021, Injective has secured significant backing from investors like Binance and Pantera Capital, raising over $190 million in funding rounds and evolving into a fully interoperable, zero gas fee blockchain platform.