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

# 🌟Indigo Protocol Brief Overview

## Why Cardano?

Given that the Indigo Protocol has been built to manage billions of dollars worth of assets, a well researched, secure, decentralized and scalable blockchain is necessary. Cardano is the most suitable blockchain that meets the requirements to fulfill Indigo’s mission.

## Brief Overview 🌟

Welcome to Indigo Protocol, a decentralized synthetic assets protocol on the Cardano blockchain. Indigo facilitates secure and efficient trading through iAssets, enabling straightforward transactions and strategic trading.

Users can mint and trade synthetic assets like iUSD, a stablecoin, and other assets such as iBTC, iETH, iJPY, and iEUR, which mirror the value of their underlying assets. These iAssets provide diverse trading and investment opportunities within the Cardano ecosystem.

With [Indigo Protocol V3](/readme/indigo-protocol-v3.md), users can open loans backed by Cardano Native Tokens (CNTs) in addition to ADA, swap through the Peg Stabilization Module (PSM), and trade on the bi-directional Indigo OrderBook.

Collateralized Debt Positions (CDPs) and Liquid Staking allow users to collateralize assets while continuing to earn ADA rewards from the Cardano network, ensuring users can maximize their yield across the protocol.

Stability Pools play a vital role in maintaining the protocol’s liquidity and stability by managing debt from liquidated CDPs and ensuring the solvency of iAssets.

Through INDY Staking, INDY holders and DAO members can engage in protocol governance, influencing its direction while earning multi-yield rewards, and aligning governance with tangible benefits for its participants.

Indigo Protocol is designed to cater to traders, liquidity providers, and governance enthusiasts, offering a range of opportunities in the decentralized finance space on Cardano.

Please join the[ Indigo community Discord server](https://discord.gg/YUbduZezdP) to learn and be part of the community.

## How do I interact with Indigo?

To interact with the Indigo Protocol, you simply need to:

1. Select the iAsset you wish to mint.
2. Select a collateral type (ADA or a whitelisted CNT).
3. Deposit collateral at or above the minimum amount for your selected pair.
4. Choose a collateral ratio (this will impact the amount of iAssets you are able to mint).

The protocol will then open a [CDP](/readme/collateral-debt-position-cdp.md) and mint the required amount of iAssets and distribute it to your wallet directly. You are then free to use the iAssets as you see fit.

To participate in the governance of Indigo and have a say in its evolution, head on over to our [Governance Forum](https://forum.indigoprotocol.io/)!