Settlement Volume

Definition ∞ Settlement volume quantifies the total value or number of transactions that have been finalized and irrevocably recorded on a blockchain or within a financial system over a specific period. This metric indicates the level of activity and the degree to which assets are being transferred and ownership changed. It is a key indicator of market liquidity and operational throughput.
Context ∞ Settlement volume is a pivotal metric frequently analyzed in cryptocurrency news to gauge the activity and maturity of various blockchain networks and trading platforms. Reports often compare settlement volumes across different assets or exchanges to assess market depth and the efficiency of transaction processing. Significant fluctuations in settlement volume can signal shifts in investor interest or operational capacity.