The crypto market is bracing for significant token unlocks from top projects including Solana, Yuga Labs, and Optimism. With market conditions remaining volatile, these unlocks could substantially impact token prices and liquidity. This analysis examines 15 major cryptocurrencies scheduled for unlocks in the coming months, evaluating:
- Unlock quantities
- Timing schedules
- Dollar values
- Percentage of circulating supply
Solana (SOL): The "Locked" Unlock
SOL presents a unique case in the upcoming unlock wave. Data from Solana Compass reveals:
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Tokens Unlocking | 21.3 million SOL |
| Percentage of Supply | 4% |
| Current USD Value | ~$270 million |
Key Insight: While the unlock quantity appears substantial, 66.1% of locked SOL (48.13 million) remains in Alameda Research wallets during their bankruptcy proceedings. These tokens won't enter circulation until liquidation completes.
Cliff Unlocks: Sudden Supply Surges
Projects employing "cliff unlocks" will release large quantities at once:
The Sandbox (SAND)
- February 14 unlock: 350 million tokens
- 11.6% of current circulating supply
- No further unlocks until August 2023
1inch Network (1INCH)
Follows similar cliff unlock pattern
Linear Unlocks: The Steady Drip
Monthly linear unlocks create sustained selling pressure:
Moonbeam (GLMR)
- Recent unlock: 46 million tokens (4.6% of circulation)
- Monthly unlocks continuing through 2023
- Year-end projection: +250 million tokens (+33% circulating supply)
Other Linear Unlock Projects:
- ApeCoin (APE)
- BitDAO (BIT)
- Aptos (APT)
- X2Y2
- LooksRare (LOOKS)
Unique Unlock Patterns
Some projects feature unconventional schedules:
dYdX (DYDX)
- February unlock: 145 million tokens (60% of circulation)
Optimism (OP)
- June unlock: 15.5 million tokens
Axie Infinity (AXS)
- January: 4.88 million tokens
- March-April: 23 million tokens
👉 Understand how token unlocks impact your portfolio
Investor Strategies for Token Unlocks
Historical examples reveal varied market responses:
1inch Network (December 2022)
- 200 million token unlock preceded 17% price drop
- Current price: $0.39 (from $0.47 pre-unlock)
The Sandbox (SAND)
- Recent 21.6 million token transfer to Binance
- Potential project team preparing for unlock
LooksRare Approach
- Staked 37.5 million unlocked LOOKS
- Team members participating in staking
FAQ: Token Unlocks Explained
Q: Why do token unlocks affect prices?
A: Increased circulating supply often leads to selling pressure, especially in bear markets.
Q: Should I sell before a major unlock?
A: Depends on your risk tolerance, project fundamentals, and market conditions. Some investors hedge with options or short positions.
Q: How can I track upcoming unlocks?
A: Use token unlocking calendars from reputable crypto data platforms.
Q: Do all projects experience price drops after unlocks?
A: Not necessarily. Strong projects with clear utility may absorb unlocks better through staking or ecosystem growth.
Q: What's the difference between cliff and linear unlocks?
A: Cliff unlocks happen all at once (shock to market), while linear unlocks occur gradually (sustained pressure).
Q: Can unlocks present buying opportunities?
A: Yes - if market overreacts to unlock news, it may create entry points for long-term holders.
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Disclaimer: This content represents the author's views only and does not constitute financial advice. Always conduct your own research before making investment decisions.