Economics, Politics and Regional Development
ISSN 2576-2060 (Print) ISSN 2576-2052 (Online)
Vol. 5, No. 1, 2024
www.scholink.org/ojs/index.php/eprd
Original Paper
Decentralized Finance (DeFi) and Traditional Banking: A
Convergence or Collision
Abdulgaffar Muhammad1, Aisha Ahmad Ishaq2, Micah Ezekiel Elton Mike3, Taiwo Ibitomi4, Nura
Ahmad Ishaq5 & Maryam Isyaku6
1
Department of Business Administration, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
2
Department of Business Administration, Kano State Polytechnic
3
Department of Business Administration, Airforce Institute of Technology
4
Department of Business Administration, Achievers University
5
FIRS Headquaters, Nigeria
6
Department of Business Administration and Management, Bayero University Kano
Received: January 7, 2024
doi:10.22158/eprd.v5n1p1
Accepted: January 29, 2024
Online Published: April 1, 2024
URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.22158/eprd.v5n1p1
Abstract
The intricate interplay between the realm of Decentralized Finance (DeFi) and the well-established
domain of traditional banking constitutes a captivating narrative of convergence, divergence, and
potential collaboration. This paper embarks on a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted
interactions between these two financial landscapes, seeking to decipher whether they are destined for
convergence or if their collision is inevitable. Decentralized Finance, or DeFi, represents a paradigm
shift in the financial sector. Empowered by blockchain technology and smart contracts, DeFi platforms
offer innovative solutions for lending, borrowing, trading, and more. Meanwhile, traditional banking,
with its longstanding institutional framework, has served as the cornerstone of financial services.
However, the emergence of DeFi has challenged the established norms, questioning the necessity of
intermediaries and centralization. The convergence hypothesis suggests a future where DeFi and
traditional banking coalesce, fusing the innovation and accessibility of DeFi with the stability and
regulatory oversight of traditional banking. This path envisions traditional financial institutions
adopting DeFi technologies to streamline operations and enhance efficiency, ultimately benefiting
consumers with faster, cheaper, and more inclusive services. Conversely, the collision theory posits
that the inherent differences between DeFi and traditional banking—decentralization vs. centralization,
innovation vs. regulation—will lead to clashes that hinder harmonious integration. Regulatory
challenges, legal uncertainties surrounding smart contracts, and the potential for market disruptions
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loom as potential roadblocks to a seamless union. Amid these dynamics, the concept of a symbiotic
relationship emerges—a scenario where DeFi and traditional banking coexist while maintaining their
distinct attributes. This balance allows for innovation to thrive within the parameters of regulatory
compliance, offering consumers a spectrum of financial services catering to diverse preferences. In
conclusion, the relationship between DeFi and traditional banking is neither singularly convergent nor
inevitably divergent. Rather, it navigates a spectrum of possibilities, shaped by regulatory
developments, technological advancements, and market demands. As the financial landscape continues
to evolve, this exploration aims to shed light on the potential trajectories of these two worlds and the
nuanced interactions that will shape the future of finance.
Keywords
Decentralized Finance, DeFi, traditional banking, convergence, collision, symbiotic relationship
1. Introduction
Decentralized Finance (DeFi) represents a rapidly expanding sector within the cryptocurrency and
blockchain industry, poised to transform conventional financial systems by fostering innovation and
modernization. It challenges the longstanding dominance of centralized banks regulated by
governments, offering an all-encompassing financial system accessible to individuals worldwide,
irrespective of race, origin, or geographical location (John et al., 2023).
This research paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current DeFi landscape,
encompassing its historical evolution, key players, and applications. Additionally, it seeks to delve into
the potential DeFi holds and the challenges impeding its broader societal acceptance, an issue
particularly pertinent due to prevalent skepticism towards DeFi.
The significance of the coexistence of Decentralized Finance (DeFi) and Traditional Banking holds
paramount importance in shaping the future of financial services (Buterin, 2014). DeFi’s emergence
signifies a fundamental shift towards decentralized and borderless financial ecosystems, challenging
the centralized nature of Traditional Banking systems (World Bank, 2017).
Traditional Banking, with its established infrastructure and regulatory framework, has long been
pivotal in financial intermediation, providing stability and trust for individuals and businesses.
However, it faces limitations such as high fees, geographical constraints, and lengthy transaction
processes, thereby fueling the demand for more efficient alternatives like DeFi.
The dynamic interplay between DeFi’s innovation and Traditional Banking’s infrastructure introduces
opportunities for collaboration, convergence, or potential collision (Mougayar, 2016). This article aims
to elucidate this interplay, analyzing their distinct features, advantages, challenges, and potential
impacts on the broader financial ecosystem.
Moreover, this paper seeks to offer a comprehensive understanding of both DeFi and Traditional
Banking systems, uncovering the motivations behind DeFi’s rise and acknowledging the crucial role of
Traditional Banking in global financial stability. It aims to explore potential points of convergence and
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collision, fostering informed discussions about their coexistence and implications for the future of
finance.
2. Understanding Decentralized Finance (DeFi)
2.1 Definition and Core Principles of DeFi
Decentralized Finance (DeFi) is a transformative financial ecosystem that operates on blockchain
technology, aiming to revolutionize traditional financial services by eliminating intermediaries and
enabling direct peer-to-peer transactions (Nakamoto, 2008). In the context of the rapid growth of DeFi,
it’s important to highlight the valuable insights from a recent study conducted by Bestas in 2023. This
study delves into the concept of decentralized finance, shedding light on the key distinctions from
traditional finance.
Decentralized finance, powered by blockchain technology, is growing day by day, managing
approximately $70 billion in assets. The study meticulously discusses how DeFi differs from traditional
finance and emphasizes the critical aspect of compliance with legal regulations and the requirements to
ensure such compliance.
Moreover, Bestas’ study provides a comprehensive evaluation of the financial services offered by the
decentralized finance field, encompassing its utilization of the stock market and stablecoins as essential
tools. The economic effects, security, and privacy dimensions of DeFi are thoroughly examined,
offering valuable insights into its operation and impact.
In this study, the differences between centralized and decentralized finance are systematically analyzed,
covering legal, economic, security, privacy, and market manipulation aspects. Additionally, the study
presents a structured methodology for distinguishing between centralized and decentralized financial
services (Bestas, 2023).
The core principles of DeFi are firmly rooted in openness, transparency, and accessibility. DeFi
protocols operate on public blockchains, ensuring complete transparency and enabling users to
independently verify transactions and contracts (Mougayar, 2016). Furthermore, DeFi platforms are
open-source, fostering collaborative development and community-driven innovation. This open nature
empowers developers to create new financial instruments and decentralized applications (DApps) that
can seamlessly integrate into the DeFi ecosystem, enhancing its functionality and diversity.
Moreover, DeFi places a significant emphasis on financial inclusivity, providing access to financial
services for individuals worldwide, irrespective of traditional identification or credit checks. This
commitment extends to unbanked and underbanked populations, bridging the divide between
traditional banking systems and individuals who have been excluded from formal financial services
(World Bank, 2017).
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The decentralized nature of DeFi platforms ensures that users maintain control over their assets. Instead
of relying on a central authority to manage funds, users hold their private keys and access financial
services directly through non-custodial wallets. This control enhances security, as users are less
susceptible to hacks or mismanagement of funds through third-party intermediaries.
Overall, the principles of decentralization, transparency, accessibility, and financial inclusivity
underpin the foundation of DeFi. As this rapidly evolving landscape continues to expand, the potential
for DeFi to disrupt traditional banking and shape the future of finance becomes increasingly apparent.
2.2 Key Components of DeFi Ecosystem
The DeFi ecosystem encompasses a diverse range of interconnected components that collectively
redefine the landscape of financial services. Operating on blockchain technology and powered by smart
contracts, these components introduce decentralization and transparency to traditional finance
(Nakamoto, 2008).
Central to the DeFi landscape are Decentralized Exchanges (DEXs), platforms that facilitate direct
peer-to-peer trading of digital assets without intermediaries. DEXs utilize smart contracts to automate
trading processes and ensure secure custody, granting users greater control over their assets (Uniswap,
2021).
Decentralized lending and borrowing protocols constitute another crucial aspect of DeFi. These
protocols enable individuals to lend or borrow digital assets in a trustless environment. Smart contracts
govern lending terms and automate collateral management, revolutionizing credit markets and
enhancing financial inclusion (Aave, 2023).
Automated Market Makers (AMMs) play a pivotal role in maintaining liquidity within DeFi platforms.
These algorithmic systems automatically determine asset prices based on supply and demand,
encouraging users to provide liquidity to decentralized pools (Narayanan et al., 2016).
Stablecoins, pegged to real-world assets or algorithmically stabilized, address the volatility of
cryptocurrencies. Stablecoins serve as a bridge between traditional financial systems and the digital
world, offering stability in a volatile market (USD Coin, 2018).
DeFi’s reliance on decentralized identity solutions and oracles further strengthens its infrastructure.
Decentralized identity technologies provide users with control over their personal information,
promoting privacy in transactions. Oracles serve as data sources, allowing smart contracts to interact
with external information accurately (Chainlink, 2023).
Additionally, the concept of yield farming and liquidity mining has gained traction within the DeFi
ecosystem. These mechanisms encourage users to provide liquidity to various DeFi platforms, earning
rewards in return. Such strategies enhance user engagement and token distribution (Synthetix, 2023).
The synergy between these components fosters a vibrant DeFi ecosystem that redefines financial
services, ushering in a new era of decentralized finance.
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2.3 Advantages and Challenges of DeFi
The emergence of Decentralized Finance (DeFi) has introduced a transformative paradigm to the
financial sector, bringing with it both distinct advantages and significant challenges.
On the advantages front, DeFi showcases its potential to foster financial inclusion on a global scale.
DeFi platforms extend financial services to previously marginalized individuals, enabling participation
in activities such as lending, borrowing, and trading. This aligns with broader efforts to enhance
financial access and empower underserved populations (World Bank, 2017).
A cornerstone advantage of DeFi is the removal of intermediaries from financial transactions. The
implementation of smart contracts eliminates the need for middlemen, expediting processes and
reducing costs. This streamlined approach enhances the efficiency and accessibility of financial
services, offering users greater control over their funds (Mougayar, 2016).
Transparency and openness emerge as inherent benefits of the DeFi ecosystem. Utilizing public
blockchains, DeFi transactions are recorded on an immutable ledger accessible to all participants. This
transparency not only fosters trust but also holds the potential to address concerns related to fraud and
non-compliance (Buterin, 2015).
Furthermore, DeFi’s modularity facilitates innovation and composability. Developers can build upon
existing protocols to create new and tailored financial solutions. This flexibility encourages rapid
iteration and the development of innovative products to meet evolving market demands (Narayanan et
al., 2016).
However, DeFi is not immune to challenges. Smart contract security remains a critical concern.
Vulnerabilities in smart contracts can lead to substantial financial losses, as past incidents have
highlighted. Rigorous auditing and robust coding practices are crucial to mitigate these risks and
enhance the security of DeFi platforms (Chainlink, 2023).
Navigating the intricate web of regulatory uncertainty poses another significant challenge. The
decentralized nature of DeFi often clashes with traditional regulatory frameworks, resulting in
ambiguity and legal complexities. Striking a balance between innovation and compliance is imperative
to ensure sustainable growth (Nakamoto, 2008).
Scalability represents an ongoing hurdle for DeFi’s widespread adoption. High network congestion on
popular blockchains can result in slow transaction processing and high fees. Solutions like layer-two
scaling are explored to address these limitations and support broader DeFi ecosystem growth
(Synthetix, 2023).
In summary, DeFi offers substantial advantages including financial inclusion, intermediary elimination,
transparency, and innovation. These, however, are coupled with challenges like smart contract security,
regulatory ambiguity, and scalability. Navigating these complexities will be instrumental in
determining DeFi’s transformative potential in reshaping the financial landscape.
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3. Methodology
The methodology employed in this study involves a qualitative approach centered on an extensive
literature review and a conceptual framework development. As this research primarily focuses on
presenting a comprehensive analysis of the intricate dynamics between Decentralized Finance (DeFi)
and Traditional Banking, no original data collection or empirical analysis is required.
3.1 Conceptual Framework Development
Based on the insights gathered from the literature review, a conceptual framework is constructed. This
framework aims to provide a structured and holistic understanding of the multifaceted relationships
between DeFi and Traditional Banking. It will be informed by established theories in finance,
economics, and technology and will be customized to reflect the unique dynamics of these financial
domains.
The qualitative analysis and synthesis of existing knowledge through the literature review will serve as
the basis for drawing conceptual insights and conclusions regarding the potential trajectories of DeFi
and its relationship with Traditional Banking. The methodology will contribute to a profound
exploration of the convergence or collision scenarios between these two financial worlds, facilitating a
more nuanced understanding of their future dynamics.
3.2 Exploring Traditional Banking
3.2.1 Overview of Traditional Banking System
The traditional banking system, a longstanding pillar of the global financial framework, contrasts with
the dynamic landscape of decentralized finance (DeFi). Modern banks trace their origins back to
ancient civilizations, where rudimentary institutions emerged to facilitate currency storage and lending.
Over time, these early concepts evolved into complex financial establishments that play vital roles in
economic development, wealth management, and capital allocation (Calomiris & Haber, 2014). At its
core, the traditional banking system performs a range of crucial functions within economies.
3.2.2 Roles and Functions of Traditional Banks
Traditional banks play a multifaceted and integral role within economies, serving as the cornerstone of
financial systems and facilitating a diverse range of functions crucial to individuals, businesses, and
governments. Central to their function, traditional banks act as deposit-takers, providing individuals
and businesses with a secure avenue to store their funds. Depositors receive interest on their deposits,
while banks use these funds to fuel loans and investments (Beck, Demirgüç-Kunt & Merrouche, 2013).
An equally vital role of traditional banks is their function as intermediaries in the credit market. By
assessing borrowers’ creditworthiness, they offer loans for various purposes, from personal needs to
entrepreneurial pursuits. This intermediary function ensures efficient capital allocation, stimulating
economic growth (Aslie et al., 2012). Traditional banks offer fundamental payment and settlement
services, enabling seamless financial transactions. Individuals and businesses rely on these services to
transfer funds, both domestically and across borders, forming the bedrock of economic interactions (La
Porta et al., 1997). Beyond these functions, traditional banks extend into wealth management activities,
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providing clients with a range of financial services such as investment advisory, retirement planning,
and portfolio management, catering to individuals’ long-term financial goals and aspirations (Gennaioli,
Shleifer & Vishny, 2012). Acting as intermediaries, traditional banks bridge the gap between savers
and borrowers. Their role in financial intermediation involves assessing risk, setting interest rates, and
directing capital to various sectors, thereby contributing to economic stability and growth (Levine,
1997). Traditional banks operate within a regulatory framework that mandates capital adequacy, risk
management, and consumer protection, ensuring financial stability and safeguarding clients’ interests
(Demirgüç-Kunt & Huizinga, 2010). In summary, traditional banks encompass functions ranging from
deposit-taking and credit intermediation to payment services, wealth management, financial
intermediation, and regulatory compliance, collectively contributing to economic growth, stability, and
the seamless flow of financial activities.
3.2.3 Pros and Cons of Traditional Banking in the Digital Age
In the midst of the digital age, traditional banks find themselves grappling with an array of advantages
and challenges brought about by the evolving technological landscape. One of the notable advantages
of traditional banking in the digital age is the physical presence that brick-and-mortar branches offer,
providing customers with opportunities for face-to-face transactions and personal interactions (Degryse
& Ongena, 2005). Traditional banks have established a reputation for trustworthiness and reliability,
reassuring customers who prioritize stability and security, especially when dealing with sensitive
financial matters (Boot, 2000). Moreover, traditional banks offer a comprehensive array of financial
services under one roof, catering to diverse financial needs, from savings and checking accounts to
mortgages and investment advice (DeYoung & Rice, 2004). However, the digital age also presents
challenges for traditional banks, including issues related to the digital divide, which limits accessibility
to online banking services for certain segments of the population (Agarwal et al., 2013). The ascent of
fintech and digital banking solutions introduces a competitive landscape that traditional banks must
confront, potentially diverting tech-savvy customers to alternative platforms (Barba Navaretti et al.,
2018). In summary, traditional banks in the digital age enjoy advantages rooted in their physical
presence, trust, and comprehensive services but must address challenges related to the digital divide
and competition from fintech disruptors. Balancing traditional values with technological adaptation
remains a central consideration for their continued relevance.
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4. Results and Discussion
4.1 Convergence and Synergies between DeFi and Traditional Banking
4.1.1 Overlapping Features and Objectives
The realms of Decentralized Finance (DeFi) and traditional banking exhibit an array of overlapping
features and shared objectives. While distinct in their operational mechanisms, these two financial
paradigms converge in certain areas, reflecting common goals within the broader financial ecosystem.
Both DeFi and traditional banking systems share the fundamental objective of financial inclusion.
While traditional banking aims to provide access to financial services for the underserved and
unbanked populations, DeFi strives to extend financial access globally through blockchain technology
and decentralized networks.
Furthermore, the efficiency of transactions unites both DeFi and traditional banking. Traditional banks
seek efficient processing of payments and fund transfers, while DeFi platforms leverage blockchain’s
speed and transparency to enhance transaction efficiency.
Another shared objective is security and trust. Traditional banks implement security measures to
protect customer data and transactions. Similarly, DeFi platforms prioritize secure smart contracts and
decentralized protocols to ensure user trust and data integrity.
Risk management is a common focus for both systems. Traditional banks employ risk assessment and
mitigation strategies for loan portfolios, while DeFi platforms integrate risk management protocols to
safeguard assets and minimize vulnerabilities.
Finally, innovation and adaptation are mutual goals. Traditional banking institutions aim to embrace
technology to improve customer experiences, and DeFi platforms continuously innovate to enhance
decentralized financial services.
In essence, while DeFi and traditional banking differ in execution, their shared objectives encompass
financial inclusion, transaction efficiency, security, risk management, and innovation. Acknowledging
these commonalities can foster a greater understanding of their potential convergence or divergence.
4.2 Case Studies: Successful Integration of DeFi and Traditional Banking
Several instances of successful integration between Decentralized Finance (DeFi) and traditional
banking have emerged, highlighting the potential for collaboration and convergence between these two
distinct financial domains. While these case studies represent specific examples, they underscore the
broader trend of exploring synergies between DeFi and traditional banking.
4.2.1 Case Study 1: JPMorgan Chase and Onyx
In a noteworthy example, JPMorgan Chase, a prominent traditional banking institution, launched Onyx,
a blockchain-based platform. Onyx aims to streamline and enhance the efficiency of the bank’s
operations, particularly in the realm of wholesale payments. By harnessing blockchain technology,
JPMorgan Chase seeks to expedite transactions, reduce errors, and improve the overall payment
experience for its clients. This case exemplifies how a traditional bank can leverage decentralized
technology to augment its existing infrastructure (JPMorgan Chase, 2020).
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4.2.2 Case Study 2: Celsius Network
Celsius Network presents an example of a platform that bridges the gap between DeFi and traditional
banking by offering services such as lending and borrowing, but with a focus on incorporating
traditional financial practices. Celsius Network employs decentralized principles to provide users with
interest income on their crypto holdings and offers loans secured by cryptocurrency collateral. This
integration of traditional financial services with decentralized technology showcases the potential for
collaboration between the two sectors (Celsius Network, 2023).
4.2.3 Case Study 3: AllianceBlock
AllianceBlock exemplifies the fusion of DeFi and traditional banking through a decentralized capital
market platform. By integrating traditional financial instruments like structured products and
derivatives with blockchain technology, AllianceBlock aims to provide efficient access to global
financial markets for both institutional and retail investors. This case highlights the potential for
decentralized platforms to facilitate traditional financial services in a more accessible and inclusive
manner (AllianceBlock, 2023).
These case studies illuminate the evolving landscape where DeFi and traditional banking intersect.
They underscore the feasibility of incorporating decentralized principles within traditional financial
systems and emphasize the transformative potential of collaboration between these two spheres. While
these examples showcase successful integration, the dynamic relationship between DeFi and traditional
banking continues to evolve, offering opportunities for innovation and convergence.
4.3 Potential Benefits of Collaboration and Interoperability
The convergence of Decentralized Finance (DeFi) and traditional banking systems offers a promising
landscape of potential benefits, driven by collaboration and interoperability between these seemingly
distinct financial realms. These benefits underscore the synergies that can arise when the strengths of
each system are harnessed collectively.
4.3.1 Enhanced Financial Inclusion
Collaboration between DeFi and traditional banking can amplify efforts towards financial inclusion.
DeFi’s decentralized nature can extend financial services to populations traditionally underserved by
conventional banking, while traditional banks can provide the infrastructure and accessibility necessary
for a broader reach (World Bank, 2018).
4.3.2 Efficient Cross-Border Transactions
By leveraging blockchain technology, the integration of DeFi and traditional banking can lead to more
efficient cross-border transactions. The inherent transparency and speed of blockchain networks can
reduce the complexities and timeframes associated with international money transfers (BIS, 2020).
4.3.3 Comprehensive Financial Services
The collaboration can yield a harmonious blend of comprehensive financial services. Traditional banks
can offer a wide array of financial products, complemented by DeFi’s agility in creating customized
solutions. This synergy provides consumers with a holistic suite of options tailored to their diverse
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needs (European Central Bank, 2020).
4.3.4 Innovation and Technological Advancement
The convergence can fuel innovation and technological advancement. DeFi’s agile and experimental
nature can inspire traditional banks to embrace new technologies and enhance their offerings.
Conversely, traditional banks’ infrastructure can provide a stable foundation for DeFi projects seeking
scalability and mainstream adoption (ECB, 2019).
In summary, collaboration and interoperability between DeFi and traditional banking hold the potential
to generate enhanced financial inclusion, efficient cross-border transactions, comprehensive financial
services, improved risk management and compliance, as well as accelerated innovation. The fusion of
their strengths can drive the evolution of the financial landscape toward a more inclusive, efficient, and
technologically advanced future.
5. Conclusion
The convergence of Decentralized Finance (DeFi) and traditional banking unveils a clash between
centralization and decentralization philosophies, reflecting divergent approaches to financial systems
and governance. Traditional banking emphasizes stability, regulatory oversight, and institutional
control, employing stringent measures like Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer
(KYC) compliance (Bordo & Levin, 2017; FATF, 2017). In contrast, DeFi prioritizes empowerment,
technological innovation, and financial privacy through decentralized platforms and smart contracts
(Swan, 2015; Narayanan et al., 2016).
The clash of these philosophies presents both challenges and opportunities. The hybridization of
centralized stability and decentralized innovation could lead to a balanced and synergistic financial
ecosystem, fostering inclusivity and compliance. However, regulatory hurdles and legal uncertainties
arise as DeFi’s decentralized nature challenges established norms, requiring a delicate balance between
innovation and risk mitigation.
Addressing the legal intricacies posed by smart contracts and determining liability in unforeseen or
malicious scenarios becomes a pressing concern. Collaborative efforts, such as regulatory sandboxes
and international alliances, emerge as potential solutions to navigate the evolving regulatory landscape.
The delicate task of harmonizing innovation with consumer protection is underscored, as the surge of
DeFi innovation challenges traditional banking’s regulatory structures. Adaptive regulation, responsive
to innovation while guarding against risks, and consumer empowerment through education are crucial
in achieving equilibrium.
In summary, the convergence of DeFi and traditional banking necessitates recalibration of regulatory
frameworks, transparent interpretation of decentralized technologies within legal bounds, and a
collaborative ethos (Böhme et al., 2015; Santander, 2023). Striking a balance between innovation and
consumer protection becomes central in shaping the future relationship between these two realms.
Looking ahead, predictions suggest increasing collaboration, with a focus on balancing innovation and
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regulatory compliance in this transformative paradigm shift.
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