Token Transfers

Definition ∞ Token transfers are operations that move digital tokens from one address or account to another on a blockchain network. These transactions represent a change in ownership or control of a specific digital asset, executed and recorded according to the underlying protocol’s rules. Each transfer involves a sender, a recipient, the amount of tokens, and often a transaction fee, all cryptographically signed. The process ensures verifiable and irreversible movement of value or rights across the distributed ledger.
Context ∞ Token transfers form the basis of most activity within cryptocurrency markets and decentralized finance, frequently appearing in news concerning transaction volumes and network congestion. The efficiency and cost of token transfers are key metrics for evaluating a blockchain’s performance and utility. Discussions often involve network fees, confirmation times, and the various standards governing different token types. Understanding these transfers is essential for comprehending how digital assets circulate and interact within their respective ecosystems.