A significant transformation in crypto trading is underway, with decentralized exchanges (DEXs) now commanding 25% of the total market share as of June 1, 2025, according to data from The Block, shared by Simon Kim.
This leap—from just 9.3% eighteen months ago—marks more than just market movement; it represents a foundational shift from centralized, trust-based systems to decentralized, code-driven infrastructure.
DEXs as the Backbone of DeFi Ecosystems
Unlike centralized exchanges (CEXs), which function as isolated platforms, DEXs operate as core components of interconnected blockchain ecosystems. Simon Kim, CEO and Managing Partner of Hashed, describes DEXs as “financial cities” compared to the “castles” of centralized platforms. This analogy underscores the dynamic composability of DEXs—users can trade on Uniswap, lend on Aave, and provide liquidity on Curve, all within a single transaction.
The statistics back this claim. Over $50 billion in flash loans were executed on DEXs throughout 2024, exemplifying the rise of “time-defying finance.” This level of automation and flexibility would be impossible within traditional financial frameworks or on CEXs.
Innovation Without Permission
One of the most compelling aspects of DEXs is their permissionless nature. Unlike CEXs, where token listings often require multimillion-dollar fees and rigorous vetting processes, DEXs allow any user to create and trade a token within minutes. With the launch of Uniswap V4’s Hooks, developers can even program and customize exchange behavior at the protocol level.
A Global Liquidity Network Through Interoperability
Cross-chain functionality is another frontier being dominated by DEXs. In 2024 alone, THORChain processed over $5 billion in cross-chain trades. Protocols like LayerZero and Axelar are also helping to create seamless bridges between previously siloed blockchain networks, enabling DEXs to serve as a global liquidity hub.
Outlook: When Will DEXs Overtake CEXs?
While CEXs still dominate the majority of crypto trading volume, the momentum is clearly shifting. With composability, permissionless innovation, and cross-chain interoperability accelerating adoption, industry leaders now question not if, but when DEXs will overtake their centralized counterparts.
Kosta Gushterov
Reporter at Coindoo
Kosta has been a part of the team since 2021 and has solidified his position with a thirst for knowledge, incredible dedication to his work and a “detective-like” mindset. He not only covers a wide range of trending topics, he also creates reviews, PR articles and educational content. His work has also been referenced by other news outlets.
Source: https://coindoo.com/dex-market-share-hits-25-is-a-decentralized-future-inevitable/