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Why crypto funds can't keep up with de fi's speedy pace

Crypto Funds Struggle to Keep Up with Fast-Paced DeFi | Bottlenecked by Approval Processes

By

Anna Novak

Jan 5, 2026, 12:11 PM

Edited By

Jonathan Lee

Updated

Jan 6, 2026, 11:04 PM

2 minutes reading time

A graphic showing a comparison of fast DeFi transactions and slow institutional crypto fund approvals, illustrating the time differences

A growing concern among crypto enthusiasts highlights a stark contrast in transaction speeds between decentralized finance (DeFi) and institutional operations. DeFi platforms like Uniswap can approve trades in as little as 12 seconds, while institutional crypto decisions often take over 11 hours. This raises questions about efficiency and potential losses for traders.

Examining the Speed Divide

Recent experiences shared on forums point to the lengthy approval process for institutional crypto funds as a major drawback. The added layers of approvals, multisig setups, and risk checks in institutional crypto operations create a significant delay. One commenter said, "DeFi is optimized for a single actor clicking a button, while funds stack layers of approvals. Each one makes sense on its own, but together they slow everything down."

Real-Life Impact on Investors

People involved in crypto funds express frustration over slow approvals. The time taken can mean the difference between a profitable transaction and a missed opportunity:

  • Competitive Edge: Investors need to act fast to take advantage of market conditions. Delays often result in lost investments.

  • Risk of Opportunity Loss: Many have encountered situations where instant execution could have led to better returns. Lengthy institutional processes hinder quick decision-making.

  • Interest in Change: The crypto community reflects a strong desire for systems that match DeFi's speed.

"Have you ever had to pass on an opportunity because you couldn’t move fast enough?" A sentiment echoed by many.

Adaptation is Essential

The current landscape suggests institutional crypto funds must adopt faster approval processes. As DeFi platforms attract investors with quick transaction speeds, institutions could face a 40% drop in client interest if they fail to adapt. Experts predict a push for automation and streamlined protocols could emerge by late 2025 to close this gap.

The Challenge Ahead for Institutional Crypto

Failures to speed up could leave institutions lagging in a rapidly changing financial ecosystem. Without embracing these necessary changes, they risk being eclipsed by their DeFi counterparts. As crypto becomes more mainstream, the pressure for speed and efficiency will only grow.

Key Insights

  • 🔄 12 seconds vs. 11+ hours: DeFi processes trades swiftly, compared to the slow pace of institutional approvals.

  • 🔍 "The real cost is defaulting to safer, slower strategies," one investor emphasized.

  • 📉 Slow processes raise doubts about institutional funds’ competitiveness in the fast-paced crypto market.

As the crypto community pushes for enhancements in approval workflows, institutions must respond swiftly. If they don’t adapt quickly, their business may well be at risk in a world where speed is king.