Locked blockchain tokens are digital assets that you can't transfer, trade, or sell until certain conditions are met or a set time has passed. They're usually part of a vesting schedule or contract that controls how a crypto project's tokens are distributed.
Locked tokens help keep projects stable and encourage long-term commitment. When tokens stay locked for a set time, teams and investors are more likely to stay involved instead of focusing on quick profits. Once the tokens unlock, they can be traded or used, which can have a big impact on the market because the supply changes.
On some secondary market platforms, you can buy locked tokens before they are tradable, often at a discount. The lower price is because buyers take on the risk of waiting until the tokens unlock before they can sell them.
What is a SAFT/?
A Simple Agreement for Future Tokens (SAFT) is a contract used by blockchain and crypto projects to raise money before their tokens are live. Unlike regular token sales where tokens are given out right away, a SAFT lets investors get tokens later, once certain goals are reached. This means investors pay now and receive tokens when the project launches or meets set milestones.
SAFTs were designed to help projects raise early funds in a legal way while following securities rules that might apply to token sales. Since SAFTs are legal contracts, they often have to meet securities laws, especially in places like the United States. Usually, only accredited or qualified investors can take part in SAFT deals.
SAFTs are similar to contracts like SAFE (Simple Agreement for Future Equity), but they are linked to tokens instead of company shares. With a SAFT, your investment turns into tokens when the project meets certain goals, often at a discount or under agreed terms.
Trading platforms for SAFT and locked tokens
Exchanges like Binance or Coinbase are good for trading well-known cryptocurrencies, but they usually don't offer pre-launch assets or locked tokens that aren't available to the public yet. To buy SAFT rights or locked tokens, you often need to use other trading platforms, such as secondary markets or over-the-counter (OTC) venues.
How to buy future and locked tokens on Acquire.Fi
Acquire.Fi is a crypto OTC platform where buyers and sellers can trade assets like SAFTs, locked tokens, and equity. Here’s a basic overview of how you can buy these crypto assets on the platform:
Creating an account and browsing listings
Start by visiting the platform’s marketplace and creating an account. You usually don't need to complete full identity verification just to browse listings, so you can view offers for SAFTs, locked tokens, and other secondary crypto assets. Each listing typically includes information about the asset, its conditions, and supporting documents. However, some deals or sellers may ask for identity checks or proof that you are an accredited investor before you can make a purchase.
Accessing deal rooms and documentation
For private or institutional deals that aren't open to everyone, the platform might let you access a data room after you sign a mutual non-disclosure agreement (NDA). This data room has extra details like financials, legal contracts, and cap tables, so you can do more thorough research before deciding.
Look over this information carefully. For SAFT deals, make sure you understand the agreement terms, what needs to happen for you to get the tokens, and any rights or restrictions. For locked tokens, check when they unlock and any rules about transferring them after they're released.
Negotiating and making an offer
On OTC and secondary marketplaces, buyers and sellers can negotiate terms instead of relying on market prices like on public exchanges. The Acquire.Fi team acts as an intermediary to make it easier for both parties to agree on a price and deal details. They often help with pricing by showing past similar deals or suggested values, but you can still negotiate, especially for bigger or more complicated trades.
Finalizing transactions
After both sides agree, follow the platform’s steps to finish the deal. This might mean doing compliance checks, signing agreements, and paying in regular money or in stablecoins. The platform may also use escrow or other protections to make sure both parties meet their obligations before the assets change hands.
If you buy a SAFT, you'll get a contract that proves your right to future tokens. If you buy locked tokens, you'll own them according to the lock-up terms and the schedule for when you can transfer or trade them.
