Synthetix (SNX) is a decentralized liquidity provisioning protocol that aims to broaden the cryptocurrency space by introducing non-blockchain assets. It is built on Optimism and Ethereum mainnet and is collateralized by SNX, ETH, and LUSD. This collateralization enables the issuance of synthetic assets (Synths) that track and provide returns on the underlying asset without requiring one to directly hold the asset. SNX tokens are used as collateral for the synthetic assets that are minted, meaning that whenever synths are issued, SNX tokens are locked up in a smart contract.

Synthetix operates by allowing users to stake their SNX tokens in a staking pool. These staked tokens serve as collateral for the issuance of synthetic assets (Synths). Synths track the value of real-world assets, providing users with exposure to these assets without the need to hold them directly. The platform tracks the underlying assets using smart contract price delivery protocols called oracles. This allows users to trade synths seamlessly, without liquidity or slippage issues. The protocol has transitioned to the Optimistic Ethereum mainnet to help reduce the gas fees on the network and lower oracle latency.

Synthetix aims to provide a more robust financial market by introducing non-blockchain assets. It serves as a backend for many protocols, providing deep liquidity and low fees. This makes it a valuable tool for protocols that require deep liquidity, such as Kwenta (Spot and Futures), Lyra (Options), Polynomial (Automated Options), and 1inch & Curve (Atomic Swaps). The protocol also allows users to autonomously trade and exchange synths, providing a decentralized exchange (DEX) platform for synthetic assets. Additionally, Synthetix has a staking pool where holders can stake their SNX tokens and receive a share of the transaction fees on the Synthetix Exchange.

Synthetix was launched in September 2017 by Kain Warwick under the name Havven (HAV). About a year later, the company rebranded to Synthetix. Warwick, the founder of Synthetix, is a non-executive director at the blueshyft retail network and has worked on several other cryptocurrency projects. He also founded Pouncer, a live auction site exclusive to Australia. The project’s CEO, Peter McKean, has over two decades of experience in software development, and the COO, Jordan Momtazi, is a business strategist, market analyst, and sales leader with several years of experience in blockchain, cryptocurrency, digital payments, and e-commerce systems. The CTO, Justin J. Moses, was the former director of engineering at MongoDB and deputy practice head of engineering at Lab49. He also co-founded Pouncer.