Definition ∞ Time preference is an economic concept describing an individual’s preference for receiving goods or services sooner rather than later, assuming all other factors are equal. In the context of digital assets, it influences investment decisions, transaction prioritization, and participation in staking or lending protocols. A higher time preference suggests a greater desire for immediate gratification, often leading to shorter-term investment horizons or a willingness to pay higher fees for faster transaction confirmation.
Context ∞ News often discusses time preference when analyzing market volatility, the demand for fast block confirmations, or the adoption rates of various decentralized finance products. Projects offering immediate liquidity or higher short-term yields often appeal to those with a high time preference. Understanding this economic principle provides insight into user behavior and market dynamics within the digital asset ecosystem.