- Zhao proposes a dark pool to fight DeFi front-running.
- Aims to shield traders from MEV attacks.
- Highlighting need for privacy in large crypto trades.

Binance CEO’s proposal marks an effort to counteract front-running in decentralized exchanges, leveraging TradFi strategies.
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Zhao floated the concept of a dark pool DEX to tackle manipulation issues in DeFi markets. The proposal arises after a significant liquidation event on Hyperliquid raised alarm over order visibility.
Zhao emphasized that current transparency in DEXs poses risks like increased slippage and worse execution prices. The dark pool model aims to safeguard large traders seeking market privacy. This concern is echoed by Zhao, who stated, “The current transparency in DEXs leads to increased slippage, worse execution prices, and higher costs for large traders due to front-running and MEV attacks.”
Impacts of such an initiative include reducing front-running for major crypto assets. Projects related to Bitcoin, Ethereum, and altcoins trading on perpetual DEXs could benefit.
Adapting dark pools to DeFi would involve technological challenges. Experts suggest using ZK-proofs or delayed settlements to achieve necessary privacy.
While the concept faces regulatory hurdles, parallels to TradFi’s dark pools highlight the potential for improved execution in decentralized trading markets. Expanding dark pool use could reshape financial norms globally.