Definition ∞ Protocol TVL reliance refers to the degree to which a decentralized finance (DeFi) protocol’s perceived value and security depend on its Total Value Locked (TVL). TVL represents the total capital deposited within a DeFi protocol, serving as a metric for its liquidity and user adoption. A high TVL often signals confidence in a protocol’s functionality and security, attracting further participation. However, over-reliance on TVL can obscure other important risk factors, potentially misrepresenting stability.
Context ∞ Debates center on whether TVL is an accurate measure of a protocol’s true health and sustainability, as it can be manipulated or influenced by market volatility. Security audits, code quality, and genuine user activity are increasingly viewed as equally critical indicators. Future analysis will likely shift towards more comprehensive metrics that assess operational resilience and economic design beyond simple capital deposits, providing a more holistic view.
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