Islamic Sale & Purchase Principles in Decentralized Exchanges: An Evaluation of Sharia Compliance

Abstract

Decentralized Exchanges (DEX) powered by immutable and automated smart contracts have revolutionized cryptocurrency trading by eliminating intermediaries. However, the alignment of their mechanisms with Islamic principles of sale and purchase remains unclear. This study conducted a qualitative analysis to assess the sharia compliance of DEXs. This research examines the conformity of DEX trading mechanisms with sharia principles by utilizing content and normative analysis of classical and contemporary Islamic finance literature alongside DEX-related articles, white papers, and industry reports. The findings reveal critical areas of non-compliance, particularly concerning contracting parties ('aqīd) and subject matter (mabī'). DEXs lack mechanisms to verify the legal capacity of transacting parties, potentially enabling involvement from individuals deemed incompetent under sharia. Cryptocurrencies as a medium of exchange also raise concerns because of their ambiguous nature as commodities or currencies, potentially leading to gharar (uncertainty) and ḍarar (harm). While certain aspects, such as the clarity of offer and acceptance (ijāb wa qabūl) through smart contracts and specific traded assets, such as certain tokens and NFTs, might align with sharia, the overall risks associated with speculation and inherent uncertainties necessitate caution. This study recommends that Muslims approach DEXs with caution until clear guidelines and sharia-compliant platforms are established. Furthermore, increased scrutiny from Islamic scholars and regulatory bodies is crucial for ensuring this rapidly evolving technology's ethical and compliant development. Abstrak Decentralized Exchanges (DEX) yang didukung oleh smart contracts telah mengubah perdagangan mata uang kripto dengan menghilangkan peran perantara. Namun, kesesuaian mekanisme DEX dengan prinsip jual beli dalam Islam masih menjadi perdebatan. Studi ini melakukan analisis kualitatif untuk menilai kepatuhan DEX terhadap syariah. Metode analisis konten dan normatif digunakan berdasarkan literatur keuangan Islam klasik dan kontemporer, serta artikel, white papers, dan laporan industri terkait DEX. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan beberapa aspek kritis yang tidak sesuai dengan syariah, terutama terkait pihak yang berkontrak ('aqīd) dan objek akad (mabī'). DEX tidak memiliki mekanisme untuk memverifikasi kapasitas hukum pihak yang bertransaksi, sehingga berpotensi melibatkan individu yang tidak kompeten menurut syariah. Selain itu, status mata uang kripto sebagai alat tukar menimbulkan ketidakpastian terkait posisinya sebagai komoditas atau mata uang, yang dapat mengakibatkan gharar (ketidakpastian) dan ḍarar (kerugian). Meski beberapa aspek seperti penawaran dan penerimaan (ijāb wa qabūl) melalui smart contracts sesuai syariah, risiko spekulasi tetap tinggi. Oleh karena itu, studi ini merekomendasikan kehati-hatian bagi umat Muslim dalam menggunakan DEX hingga panduan syariah yang lebih jelas tersedia, serta pengawasan ulama dan regulator yang lebih ketat diperlukan.