IDEX (IDEX) is a unique hybrid liquidity decentralized exchange (DEX) that merges the features of a traditional order book model with an automated market maker (AMM). It aims to provide users with a seamless and efficient trading experience by combining an off-chain trading engine with on-chain trade settlement. This approach aims to eliminate the possibility of failed trades and unnecessary gas fees, allowing for instant trade execution and the implementation of advanced order types and trading strategies. IDEX operates on Ethereum and Binance Smart Chain and seeks to expand to other layer one and layer two blockchains in the future.

IDEX operates by using an off-chain trading engine to execute trades, matching the performance of centralized exchanges and ensuring sequencing. Trades are processed in an off-chain order book, and only when a trade is matched and executed, the transaction is settled on-chain. This method allows users to avoid additional network costs for placing and canceling orders. Moreover, placements are processed in real-time, enabling more advanced trading and market-making strategies. The AMM ensures liquidity by displaying virtual limit orders in the order book along with real limit orders, visualizing AMM liquidity in the order book model. IDEX uses smart contracts to decentralize fund custody and trade settlement, ensuring users maintain custody and can make markets without additional infrastructure.

IDEX aims to provide a platform for efficient and secure cryptocurrency trading. It allows users to execute advanced order types and trading strategies, opening up arbitrage opportunities with other exchanges. IDEX also offers a staking feature, where users can run a lightweight node and stake their IDEX if they have a minimum of 10,000 IDEX. This feature allows users to contribute to the decentralization and robustness of the IDEX platform while receiving a portion of the trade fees collected by the network. Furthermore, IDEX seeks to implement leverage trading in the future, providing users with more trading options and potential compensation.

IDEX was launched in 2017 by CEO and co-founder Alex Wearn and his brother and COO Phil Wearn. Alex Wearn has a background in renowned companies such as Amazon, IBM, and Adobe, while Phil Wearn has a professional background in accounting and entrepreneurial experience. The management team is further complemented by CTO Brian Yennie, a software engineer with over 20 years of experience. The 2.0 version of IDEX was launched in fall 2020 after closing a $2.5 million seed funding led by G1 Ventures and Borderless Capital, including Collider Ventures, and Gnosis. The IDEX team, which is 29 people strong, continues to work towards a multi-chain future for the exchange.