After a stretch of downward momentum, the cryptocurrency market is showing signs of moving toward a more balanced state, as funding rates across leading centralized and decentralized exchanges (CEXs and DEXs) begin to level out. Based on a
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At the same time, decentralized exchanges are gaining momentum, with
The combination of steadier funding rates and increased DEX activity points to an evolving and more sophisticated market environment. While CEXs still hold the majority share in derivatives trading, decentralized options are increasingly seen as credible alternatives for leveraged crypto trades. Experts observe that Aster’s expansion, fueled by liquidity rewards and cross-chain features, signals a rising preference for transparent and non-custodial trading solutions. Nevertheless, the platform’s heavy use of token incentives raises concerns about whether users will stay once these rewards are reduced.
Traders are also watching to see if the recent stabilization in funding rates will lead to a significant bullish turnaround or if it simply marks a brief respite in the prevailing bearish trend. Current projections suggest that decentralized derivatives platforms could account for more than a quarter of the global crypto derivatives market by 2026, driven by tighter regulations on centralized exchanges and ongoing improvements in DeFi technology.