DeFi tokens represent a diverse set of cryptocurrencies native to automated, decentralized platforms that operate using smart contracts. These provide users' access to a suite of financial applications and services built on the blockchain. Among the most popular projects are lending protocols Aave, Maker and Compound. These are protocols that let you borrow cryptocurrencies instantaneously—and often in large amounts if you can prove you can pay back the loan in a single transaction. You can also earn interest from lending out cryptocurrencies.