The decentralized finance (DeFi) sector achieved a new all-time high in Total Value Locked (TVL), reaching $225 billion in 2025, surpassing the previous peak of $204 billion in 2021. This growth is largely attributed to the increasing prominence of stablecoins, with USDT and USDC's combined market capitalization exceeding $260 billion. Despite the impressive figures, experts suggest the focus is shifting towards stablecoins and simpler yield products, reflecting a user preference for accessible financial tools. The rise in DeFi TVL is accompanied by a notable shift towards yield-bearing stablecoins and real-world assets (RWAs), which have attracted over $20 billion in value. Analysts highlight platforms like Aave, Ethena Labs, and Pendle Finance as leaders in offering straightforward, yield-based products. These developments indicate a growing demand for simplicity and safety in DeFi, as users seek easy-to-understand returns rather than complex financial instruments.