Decentralized Finance (DeFi) Primitives

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/decentralized-finance-primitives-duke

Introduction

### Course Review: Decentralized Finance (DeFi) Primitives on Coursera #### Overview If you're intrigued by the world of finance, particularly the burgeoning field of decentralized finance (DeFi), look no further than Coursera's course titled **"Decentralized Finance (DeFi) Primitives."** This course is part of a comprehensive four-course specialization called **"DeFi and the Future of Finance,"** and comes recommended after completing the foundational course, **"DeFi Infrastructure."** The **DeFi Primitives** course aims to demystify complex financial mechanics tied to the burgeoning DeFi ecosystem while encouraging practical engagement through hands-on exercises. It covers essential topics such as transaction mechanics, fungible and non-fungible tokens (NFTs), custody concerns, and the nuances of supply adjustment via minting and burning. By the end of the course, students will be well-prepared to explore the innovative world of decentralized finance. #### Course Structure and Syllabus The course is divided into four informative modules: 1. **Mechanics** - This module serves as an introduction to the foundational aspects of Ethereum transactions. It explains the distinctions between externally owned accounts and contract accounts, delving into key primitives that form the basis of DeFi. The exploration of fungible and non-fungible tokens lays the groundwork for understanding their roles in this novel financial landscape, highlighting concepts such as miner extractable value. 2. **Supply and Ownership** - In this module, learners dive into critical themes of supply adjustment, including minting and burning. It uncovers the atomic nature of Ethereum transactions and introduces the concept of the "keeper" within the Ethereum ecosystem, facilitating an understanding of the incentives that motivate participants in the DeFi space. 3. **Loans and Swaps** - Here, the course transitions into advanced topics, shedding light on decentralized exchanges and Automated Market Makers (AMMs). Students will gain insights into collateralized loans and uncollateralized flash loans, providing a well-rounded understanding of the lending mechanisms that define much of DeFi's innovative potential. 4. **Joining the World of DeFi** - The final module is highly practical, guiding students through the step-by-step process of setting up a MetaMask wallet—an essential tool for engaging with DeFi platforms. A deep dive into key blockchain concepts, including digital signatures and consensus mechanisms (like Proof of Stake), rounds out the course and provides students with a robust theoretical framework. #### Why You Should Take This Course 1. **Solid Foundation in DeFi:** This course is perfect for students who have completed **DeFi Infrastructure** as it builds on fundamental knowledge while introducing more complex topics. 2. **Practical Engagement:** Completing this course not only arms you with theoretical knowledge but also equips you with the practical skills necessary to navigate the DeFi landscape. 3. **Expert Instruction:** The course is crafted by industry experts who provide insights and context that reflect real-world applications and innovations within DeFi ecosystems. 4. **Networking Opportunities:** Engaging in discussions with fellow students and instructors can help build a network in the fast-evolving world of decentralized finance. 5. **Future Ready:** As finance increasingly shifts towards decentralization, understanding DeFi concepts will become crucial for anyone looking to stay relevant in the finance industry, potentially unlocking new career opportunities. #### Conclusion The **Decentralized Finance (DeFi) Primitives** course from Coursera is an invaluable resource for those looking to delve deeper into the intricacies of DeFi. With an impressive syllabus, clear structure, and engaging content, this course is highly recommended for anyone eager to understand the future of finance. Whether you're a finance professional, a tech enthusiast, or simply curious about DeFi, this course will equip you with knowledge and skills to navigate a rapidly evolving landscape. **Enroll today, and step confidently into the world of decentralized finance!**

Syllabus

Mechanics

The first module explores some key primitives such as how Ethereum transactions occur including the differences between externally owned accounts and contract accounts. We then explore fungible and non-fungible (NFT) tokens and miner extractable value.

The second module focuses on supply adjustment (minting and burning), the atomic nature of transactions in Ethereum, as well as incentives. The concept of a keeper in the Ethereum ecosystem is introduced.

The third module introduces decentralized exchange and explores in considerable detail Automated Market Makers. The module also introduces the idea of collateralized loans as well as uncollateralized flash loans.

The final module shows step-by-step how to set up a MetaMask wallet allowing the student to join the world of DeFi. The second part of the module conducts a deep dive into some of the key blockchain concepts such as digital signatures and consensus mechanisms (including Proof of Stake).