Book excerpt: There is a pressing need for a balanced account outlining what DeFi actually means for investors, banks and the finance industry. Why DeFi Matters cuts through the jargon and the hype to help people make more informed decisions in this space. It examines the evolution of DeFi and cryptocurrencies, analysing what it means for investors and the future of finance. It also outlines the developments that truly matter, distinguishing between longer-term trends and fads, and is a must-read for finance professionals, organizations and investors interested in moving into DeFi. Why DeFi Matters explores the rise of DeFi and provides focused, balanced analysis about this alternative financial system that is being built and how it will coexist with banks, institutions and traditional finance. It examines the aspects of DeFi that will materially change financial systems and how they will alter the nature of purchasing, lending, insurance and banking; the role of web3 and the metaverse in the new era of finance; and its role in the democratization of finance.