1) Why didn't anyone answer the multiple questions as to what NEX really is in layman's terms?
Bcs this is not a official Channel of NEX. They are not on BTCT atm. So most of tha answers are just speculations
2) What are the advantages of a decentralised exchange vs a centralised one, apart from lower trading fees and commissions?
The main advantage of an decentralised exchange is that nobody can shut down the exchange with one click. Lets say Bittrex owners decide to run away with your money, they just have to shut down the Page and all Money is gone. on an decentralised exchange this is not possible
3) Finally, why an ICO/coin is needed as it is my understanding that coming from NEO guys, they already have the funding?
NEX is not from the NEO guys, its from the Guys of City of Zion. They are "just" NEO developers
I still visited their website today, no information on when the ICO is going to take place, I just hope that the token won't sell off during the private sale and let small investors too benefited
There will be no PreSale or something like that as comunicated till now