The decentralized finance (DeFi) sector is witnessing a significant surge in active loan balances, reflecting a robust demand for borrowing that shows no signs of abating. According to the results published in the material, this trend, observed from Q1 2023 to Q1 2026, highlights the evolving landscape of DeFi lending and its implications for the broader market.
Unprecedented Levels of Active Loan Balances in DeFi
Active loan balances in DeFi have reached unprecedented levels, indicating a shift towards sustained borrowing rather than mere speculative activities. This trend underscores the importance of lending as a fundamental component of DeFi's market structure, suggesting that users are deploying real capital for various purposes.
Leading Protocols in the Lending Boom
Leading the charge in this lending boom are major protocols such as:
- Aave
- Morpho
Aave continues to dominate the active loan volume, while Morpho is establishing itself as a significant alternative liquidity source. Together, these platforms are shaping the future of DeFi lending.
Diversification of Borrowing Demand
Moreover, the diversification of borrowing demand across different chains and use cases is enhancing the resilience of the DeFi ecosystem. As various lending protocols contribute to this growth, the landscape is becoming increasingly robust, paving the way for a more stable and mature market.
Recently, Probable gained recognition in the DeFi landscape by being included in DeFiLlama's volume dashboard, highlighting its growing prominence. This development contrasts with the ongoing surge in active loan balances in the DeFi sector. For more details, see Probable's Recognition.







