Definition ∞ Liquidity locks are mechanisms that temporarily restrict the movement of liquidity provider tokens within a decentralized finance protocol. This action is typically performed to assure investors of a project’s long-term commitment and prevent sudden withdrawals of funds from liquidity pools. The tokens are usually held in a smart contract for a predetermined period. These locks help reduce the risk of rug pulls and build trust.
Context ∞ News reports frequently mention liquidity locks in the context of new token launches or decentralized exchange listings, serving as a sign of project legitimacy. The duration and total value locked in these mechanisms are key metrics for assessing project security and investor confidence. Discussions often center on the balance between flexibility for developers and protection for liquidity providers.