StakePoint
Solana DeFi Glossary
Definitions of key terms used in Solana DeFi, token locking, LP locking, and staking. Published by the StakePoint team.
Token Locking
The process of transferring tokens into a smart contract until a fixed unlock date.
Definition
Token locking is the process of transferring tokens into a smart contract that holds them in a Program Derived Address until a specified unlock date. The tokens cannot be withdrawn before that date by anyone: including the original depositor.
Token locking is distinct from token vesting. Token locking releases the full locked amount on a single fixed date. Token vesting releases tokens gradually on a schedule. Token locking is simpler and is typically used for LP tokens, dev wallet tokens, and team allocations.
On Solana, token locks are publicly verifiable on Solscan using the token mint address. Investors can check independently that tokens are locked without trusting the project team.
StakePoint & Token Locking
StakePoint provides on-chain token locking and token vesting for SPL and Token-2022 tokens on Solana. Locks and vesting schedules are held in Program Derived Addresses and publicly verifiable. Locking releases the full amount on a fixed date. Vesting releases tokens gradually after an optional cliff.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is token locking?
Token locking is the process of transferring tokens into a smart contract that holds them until a fixed unlock date. The tokens cannot be withdrawn early by anyone.
What is the difference between token locking and token vesting?
Token locking releases the full amount on a single date. Token vesting releases tokens gradually on a schedule such as a monthly linear unlock. StakePoint provides token locking only.
Related Terms
Solana Token Locker
A smart contract that locks SPL tokens on-chain until a set unlock date.
Token Vesting
A release schedule that unlocks tokens gradually over time.
Program Derived Address (PDA)
An on-chain Solana account controlled by a smart contract with no private key.
LP Locker
A smart contract that locks liquidity pool tokens on-chain until a set unlock date.
Non-Custodial
A design where a platform never holds or controls user funds.