Uniswap UNI
Token swaps and governance.
Uniswap is a protocol for exchanging tokens using smart contracts. UNI is its governance token, separate from making a swap.
What is Uniswap?
Uniswap uses smart contracts and liquidity pools to exchange tokens onchain. People can trade or supply assets to pools. UNI relates to protocol governance; it is not a share in Uniswap Labs and is distinct from using the trading interface.
An available trading pool is not an endorsement of its tokens. Trading and supplying liquidity can expose users to losses and smart-contract risks.
Why people pay attention
Token exchange
Smart contracts support swaps between assets.
Liquidity pools
Users can supply assets for trading pools.
Governance
UNI holders participate in the protocol’s governance system.
Origins & development
Hayden Adams publicly launched Uniswap in November 2018. The UNI governance token was introduced in September 2020; the protocol and token have different launch dates.
Explore more
Related stories and learning resources will be added after editorial review.
Sources & further reading
Draft — editorial review pending