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What is the Definition of “Vested” in Crypto? What Are the Different Types of Vesting Schedules?

By Jerry McNeill
May 1, 2023
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In this article, you will learn what is the definition of “vested” in crypto. Vesting is a process where a certain amount of a project's overall token supply is set aside for a period of time and released after certain conditions are met. 

What is the Definition of “Vested” in Crypto?

In the context of cryptocurrencies, vested refers to a portion of tokens or coins that are subject to a vesting schedule. A vesting schedule is a mechanism used to release tokens or coins gradually over a period of time, rather than all at once. This is Typically done to incentivize team members, advisors, or investors to stay with a project for a certain period of time and to reward them for their contributions.

For example, a project may allocate a certain amount of tokens to a team member, but require that the tokens be vested over a period of several months or years. During this time, the tokens will be gradually released to the team member in predefined intervals or milestones, such as every month or quarter. This helps to ensure that team members are committed to the project for the long term, and also helps to prevent token dumping that could negatively impact the price of the token.

Vesting is a common practice in the cryptocurrency industry, particularly for initial coin offerings (ICOs) and token sales. It is also used by some blockchain projects as a way to distribute tokens to community members or to reward users for participating in certain activities.

What Are the Different Types of Vesting Schedules?

Vesting schedules are the period in which the tokens are locked, and these schedules can be fixed or flexible. There are three types of vesting schedules.

-Linear Vesting Schedule

It involves releasing the vested tokens in a linear amount and time. This means that the amount of tokens and periods are proportional. For example, 10% of the vested tokens are released every 6 months.

-Graded Vesting Schedule

It allows different amounts of vested assets to be released over different periods of time. The schedule can be customized to the project's preference. For example, 10% of the vested assets can be released in 6 months, a further 15% can be released 3 months after, and a final 5% after 6 months.

- Cliff Vesting Schedule

It specifies when a vesting program begins. In this model, an investor would become vested after holding their liquidity in the project for a specific period of time. Once an investor reaches that threshold time period, the process then follows a linear or graded vesting technique After the successful completion of the cliff time limits.

Bottom Line

Crypto vesting helps a project create a healthy token economy. The vesting period may be several months or several years, and the tokens may be released in stages or all at once at the end of the period. This article is about what is the definition of “vested” in crypto.

Disclaimer: The information on this page may have been obtained from third parties and does not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of BitKan. This content is provided for general informational purposes only, without any representation or warranty of any kind, nor shall it be construed as financial or investment advice. BitKan shall not be liable for any errors or omissions, or for any outcomes resulting from the use of this information. Investments in digital assets can be risky. Please carefully evaluate the risks of a product and your risk tolerance based on your own financial circumstances. Products mentioned in this article may not be available in your region.

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