Uniswap, a leading decentralized exchange platform, has launched its fourth version on 12 blockchain networks. The new version promises a series of innovations, including so-called 'hooks' that allow developers to create customizable logic for trading pairs.
New Features of Uniswap v4
Uniswap v4 introduces 'hooks'—special plugins for creating unique trading logic. These tools enable dynamic swap fees adjustment, lending of unused liquidity for added yield, automatic hedging against impermanent loss, and protection against maximum extractable value (MEV) strategies, such as sandwich attacks.
Scalability Support and Expansion
Uniswap v4 operates on layer-2 networks, including Arbitrum, Base, Optimism, and Polygon. The platform plans to expand to more blockchains in the coming weeks. The Uniswap Foundation has issued grants to approximately 800 developers to create 150 unique hooks.
Response to Market Competition
In 2024, Uniswap lost its leadership in trading volume to Raydium, the top DEX on Solana. The v4 launch follows the creation of its own layer-2 network, Unichain, which promises faster and cheaper transactions. However, delays in development pushed the v4 launch by a few months.
The new version of Uniswap v4 marks a significant advancement in decentralized exchange, offering users and developers additional tools and opportunities to interact with cryptocurrencies efficiently.