Haciyev Reşit 
The cryptocurrency market has experienced sharp volatility in recent weeks. Increasing selling pressure, short-lived upward attempts that were quickly reversed, and deeper corrections have significantly reduced investor risk appetite. During this period of weakened market sentiment, the token unlocks scheduled for December—worth approximately $1.8 billion may further destabilize the already fragile environment. Unlock events of this scale often increase market volatility and heighten uncertainty in price movements.
Large Token Unlocks in December Pose Market Risks
The $1.8 billion in tokens set to be unlocked throughout December could intensify volatility, especially in the currently weak altcoin market. While some analysts suggest the possibility of a year-end recovery, the sudden influx of large token supplies may amplify selling pressure.
Token unlock mechanisms distribute allocations designated for team members, early investors, and ecosystem partners at predetermined intervals. However, historical data shows that a significant portion of these unlocked tokens are often sold immediately, negatively impacting market sentiment.
Sui and Aster Lead December’s Largest Unlock Events
Sui and Aster are among the projects with the biggest token unlocks planned for December. According to CryptoRank, both projects will introduce approximately $86.8 million worth of tokens into circulation. Such substantial unlocks may increase supply-side pressure, particularly given the current market conditions. Sui continues its structured distribution plan aimed at supporting ecosystem programs, developer incentives, and validators. As part of its long-term growth strategy, the project gradually releases token allocations to strengthen network development.
On the Aster side, active ecosystem development stands out. Its decentralized exchange recently launched a feature aimed at re-engaging previously liquidated users. This innovation is seen as part of the platform’s efforts to increase trading volume and expand its user base.
Additional Supply from Mid-Sized Projects
Numerous mid-sized projects will also conduct multi-million-dollar unlocks throughout December. Notable examples include:
- LayerZero – $33.7M
- PUMP – $31.22M
- ENA – $27.66M
- APT – $25.2M
- EigenLayer – $23.5M
- Arbitrum – $20.63M
- STBL – $20.4M
- ESPORTS – $19.44M
These additional supplies may further strain an already fragile market structure.
What Does This Mean for Investors?
Although token unlocks are publicly scheduled—allowing investors to prepare—the heightened uncertainty makes December a critical month. Some investors may use the increased liquidity to their advantage, but widespread sell-offs could also be triggered.
How the market absorbs the $1.8 billion in new token supply entering circulation in the final month of 2025 will be closely monitored. Still, potential macro-economic support—such as expected rate cuts and the end of quantitative tightening in December—may partially offset selling pressure.
Market analysts summarize the situation as follows:
“The massive token unlocks in December may make the already tense market environment even more fragile. Particularly large altcoin unlocks are likely to increase short-term volatility.”
Conclusion
The $1.8 billion worth of token unlocks scheduled for December stands out as one of the most significant volatility-driving events in the crypto market. Large unlocks from major projects such as Sui, Astar, LayerZero, and Arbitrum may directly impact investor behavior. Although market expectations for year-end recovery remain intact, the selling pressure created by large-scale unlocks could lead to notable price fluctuations in the short term.
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