Blockchain Unchained: How DeFi, NFTs, and Interoperability Are Redefining Digital Trust

Abstract

Blockchain technology has undergone transformative advancements since its introduction as the underlying framework for Bitcoin.Initially a decentralized ledger for cryptocurrencies, its applications now span finance, healthcare, supply chain management, and governance.This study investigates contemporary trends such as decentralized finance (DeFi), non-fungible tokens (NFTs), cross-chain interoperability, and evolving regulatory landscapes.Challenges including scalability limitations, energy inefficiencies, and security vulnerabilities are critically evaluated.The analysis indicates that blockchain is transitioning from experimental use cases to institutional adoption, driven by technological innovation and growing enterprise demand.