Definition ∞ Locked Tokens are digital assets that are restricted from being traded, transferred, or accessed for a specific period or until certain conditions are met. This mechanism is commonly employed in initial coin offerings (ICOs), token generation events (TGEs), and vesting schedules for project team members or early investors. The purpose is typically to prevent immediate sell-offs, thereby stabilizing token prices and aligning long-term incentives. Their status is often a key metric for assessing project development progress and potential future market supply.
Context ∞ News coverage regarding Locked Tokens frequently pertains to the unlocking schedules of large token allocations held by project founders or venture capital firms. A significant discussion point is the potential market impact when these tokens become available for trading, which can influence price dynamics. Future developments to observe include the increased use of smart contracts to automate and enforce token lock-up periods and the evolving regulatory scrutiny surrounding token distribution and vesting practices.