> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.runex.org/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.runex.org/the-basics/introduction.md).

# Introduction

Smart-contracts are functions performed on decentralized infrastructure, such as blockchain. They are protected from hacking in the way that neither part (even their creator) can change their code or interfere with their performance. Smart contracts also guarantee performance of actions indicated in them, which binds all the parties to this agreement in accordance with its text, create new and powerful type of confidential relations which do not depend on trust to any party. As they are self-verified and self-performed (that is, protected from hacking as explained above), smart-contracts thus create a new powerful type of confidential relations. This way, smart-contracts give an incentive for developing technologies of safe interaction for multiple parties and are applicable in traiding niche. For a long time, crypto-assets trading on the basis of smart-contract algorithms was hardly feasible due to absence of experience of creation of complicated automated systems. Currently there are working algorithms whose function is automated exchange of crypto-assets, but still they are far from perfect due to difficulties of algorithm building. Another important question is the circle of persons who will function as market-makers. Current situation in the trading nitch. In the current conditions, there are several types of market-makers. The first work with centralized markets. The second work with decentralized suppliers of trading services. The first ones and the second ones have a number of advantages and disadvantages. In the work with centralized markets, there is a question of ordinary users’ welfare, because market-makers in such markets pursue the goal of their own enrichment, and their actions may negatively impact on users due to absence of proper level of trust between these two parties. And on the contrary, in work with decentralized markets, where there is high level of trust between two parties due to use of smart-contracts, there is a problem with the service quality and absence of extensive tools presented in centralized markets.

####


---

# Agent Instructions
This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com.

## Querying This Documentation
If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter:

```
GET https://docs.runex.org/the-basics/introduction.md?ask=<question>
```

The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.

Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.
