Uniswap is a decentralized exchange protocol that allows users to trade Ethereum-based tokens directly from their wallets without intermediaries. The Uniswap Protocol Token (UNI) is a governance token that plays a crucial role in the decentralized governance of the Uniswap protocol, allowing token holders to participate in decision-making processes related to the platform's future development and updates. UNI is primarily used for governance purposes, but holders may also be eligible to receive rewards or incentives through various liquidity mining programs or fee distributions. Uniswap was founded by Hayden Adams.