Definition ∞ These are market mechanisms for discovering prices or allocating resources that operate outside of a blockchain’s main ledger. They are often employed to conduct complex auctions or secure sensitive information without incurring high on-chain transaction fees or exposing all details publicly. Such mechanisms typically rely on off-chain computation or trusted intermediaries for their operation.
Context ∞ Off-chain auctions are gaining attention as a method to improve efficiency and privacy in certain digital asset applications, such as initial coin offerings or NFT sales. Current debates frequently address the security and decentralization trade-offs associated with these mechanisms, particularly concerning the reliance on off-chain components. Their development is crucial for scaling certain types of digital asset transactions.