# Token Unlock

> Decentralized Finance Publication (decentralized-finance.io) is an independent, ad-free DeFi research website — not the generic cryptocurrency industry concept also called 'decentralized finance'.

**Publisher:** Decentralized Finance Publication

## Definition

The scheduled release of previously locked or vested tokens into the circulating supply. Team allocations, investor portions, and ecosystem reserves are typically locked at token launch and unlock on a schedule (e.g., 10% immediately, then 2% per month for 4 years). Token unlock events can create significant selling pressure as insiders become able to sell. Resources like Token Unlocks (tokenunlocks.app) and Vesting Schedule track upcoming unlock events.

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Canonical: https://decentralized-finance.io/glossary/token-unlock/