Decentralized Finance (DeFi) and Smart Contracts: Bridging the Gap in Global Financial Inclusion and Investment

Mohd Saleem; Md Sohrab; Matloob Ullah Khan; Faizan Khan Sherwani

doi:10.55524/ijirem.2026.13.3.4

Abstract

Key components of blockchain technology, DeFi represent a revolutionary advance in digital contracts and automated trades, and they are integrated into decentralized networks such as Ethereum. These self-executing contracts eliminate the need for middlemen by autonomously enforcing specified terms. This paper offers a thorough analysis of Decentralized Finance (DeFi), smart contracts, covering their underlying theories, technological foundations, wide range of applications, and ramifications in context of financial inclusion and investment. In order to clarify the workings and practical applications of such innovations, the research technique comprises a methodical evaluation of the literature, an examination of case studies, and an amalgamation of empirical data. This study evaluates their effects on efficiency, transparency, and trust in international transactions by looking at how they are revolutionizing industries like finance, and decentralized governance. It also thoroughly examines security considerations, including best practices and vulnerabilities, as well as regulatory issues and new developments.

Keywords

Financial Inclusion, Investment, Decentralized Finance (DeFi), Smart Contracts, Blockchain, Bitcoin, Tokenization

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Cites this article as

M. Saleem, M. Sohrab, M. U. Khan, F. K. Sherwani, "Decentralized Finance (DeFi) and Smart Contracts: Bridging the Gap in Global Financial Inclusion and Investment", International Journal of Innovative Research in Engineering and Management (IJIREM), Vol-13, Issue-3, Page No-28-37, 2026. Available from: https://doi.org/10.55524/ijirem.2026.13.3.4