Every innovation faces resistance. It’s always been this way. Many technologies we now consider essential were once met with skepticism — but over time, it became clear they brought more efficiency and practicality, and those who resisted had to adapt.
DREX is no different. Even while still in testing, it already has its share of haters — people who, for different reasons, oppose its adoption. Much of this discussion happens on social media, at events, or in industry groups, and I believe DREX’s critics generally fall into four main profiles.
The first group is the DeFi maximalists. These are people deeply involved in the crypto world who advocate for a fully decentralized financial system, free from governments or central banks. This group ignores the fact that DREX is not trying to replace DeFi. Its role is to digitize and modernize the traditional economy, bringing more efficiency, transparency, and possibilities to a system that already exists and needs to evolve. DREX and DeFi are not competitors — they have different goals and serve different audiences. DREX doesn’t prevent anyone from using cryptocurrencies, but rather offers an alternative for those who want to operate within a regulated environment.
The second group includes those with something to lose. These are players who profit from inefficiencies in the current system and may see their relevance diminished as financial records become digitized. Entire sectors survive on bureaucracy and intermediaries that have become obsolete. Many businesses and professions were built around steps that DREX and smart contracts could automate. These intermediaries naturally resist a system that may render them unnecessary. When technology cuts costs and removes friction, there will always be those who try to preserve the status quo to protect their interests.
The third group includes those with something to hide. These are individuals who prefer to avoid traceability in large transactions and believe that is their right. Even today, there are ways to move money without leaving clear trails — whether to evade regulation, hide assets, or operate in a financial gray area. For these people, DREX may not pose a direct threat, but any initiative that advances the digitalization of the financial system is unwelcome.
The fourth group is the misinformed. These are people who still think DREX will replace physical cash or be just a digital version of Pix. Others fear the government will monitor and control every individual expense — a fear that doesn’t make sense given the design of the current model. These concerns often stem from distorted information that circulates online and ends up fueling distrust. A large portion of the resistance to DREX is based on myths and a lack of understanding of its true purpose.
And that’s why these groups should be following this column.
Those familiar with crypto and DeFi should realize that DREX and the decentralized world aren’t enemies — sooner or later, those ecosystems will intersect.
Those with something to lose should see this as an opportunity for adaptation. Financial digitalization has already begun, and historically, those who adapted early came out ahead. Understanding DREX now is a strategic advantage.
Those with something to hide… well, maybe they should skip #SabaDREX.
As for anyone working in the financial market — whether in banking, fintech, payments, credit, or investments — following this evolution isn’t optional. It’s a necessity.
If I missed a group, let me know. And if you know someone who needs to read this — share it.