The 2025 Transformation of Blockchain DEXs: Advanced CEX-Level Features Propel Decentralized Expansion

The landscape of perpetual decentralized exchanges (DEXs) in 2025 is undergoing significant changes as blockchain ecosystems and trading platforms implement advanced solutions to boost scalability, cross-chain compatibility, and overall user satisfaction. A key aspect of this transformation is the shift of

and from their existing Relay Chain structure to the Asset Hub model, a transition that has the backing of leading exchanges such as , CEX, and Binance. Set for October 7 and November 4, 2025, this migration marks a pivotal move toward more resilient and decentralized systems that can compete with traditional centralized exchanges .

According to Polkadot’s 2025 development plan, the Asset Hub will soon support Solidity smart contracts, bringing complete

Virtual Machine (EVM) integration. This advancement enables developers to launch Ethereum-compatible applications on Polkadot without needing to rebuild their infrastructure, making it much easier for projects familiar with Ethereum to join the network . The update also increases the functionality of Polkadot’s native token, which will serve as a universal payment token for smart contracts, governance, and staking. Kusama’s upgrade will mirror these features, reinforcing its position as a platform for testing new blockchain innovations .

During the migration, exchanges will temporarily suspend certain services. For example, Binance will pause deposits and withdrawals for Kusama (KSM) and Polkadot (DOT) to facilitate the upgrade process. Coinbase and CEX will also implement similar restrictions, with Kusama’s transfer functions disabled from October 6–8, 2025, and Polkadot’s from November 3–5. These synchronized actions highlight the cooperative efforts between blockchain projects and exchanges to ensure smooth upgrades with minimal disruption.

The technical improvements include adaptive scaling, which automatically adjusts relay chain resources to accommodate higher transaction loads. This capability was validated during Kusama’s “Spammening” test, where the network managed over 143,000 transactions per second (TPS) at just 23% of its capacity. At full utilization, Polkadot could theoretically surpass 623,000 TPS, setting a new standard among blockchain networks. Furthermore, the adoption of a standardized address system across parachains and rollups streamlines user operations, minimizes mistakes, and makes blockchain more accessible to those without technical expertise.

These enhancements have far-reaching effects beyond just technical metrics. With EVM compatibility and smart contract deployment, the Asset Hub positions Polkadot and Kusama as strong contenders to Ethereum for decentralized finance (DeFi), NFT, and gaming sectors. The broader application of DOT and

as transaction tokens further boosts their economic significance, potentially increasing their adoption and value. For DEXs, these upgrades provide a more scalable and interconnected foundation, decreasing dependence on centralized entities while upholding security and decentralization .

Experts observe that the competition among DEXs in 2025 is increasingly shaped by the adoption of features typically found on centralized exchanges. The partnership between Polkadot/Kusama and major platforms like Coinbase and Binance reflects a broader movement towards merging the strengths of both decentralized and centralized models to attract a wider range of users. Nevertheless, there are still hurdles to overcome, such as establishing effective governance systems and managing the risks that come with rapid technological progress.