Chainlink, a leading blockchain oracle provider, has just completed its eleventh major token unlock, releasing 17.875 million LINK tokens—valued at approximately $149 million—directly to Binance, the world’s largest crypto exchange by trading volume. This routine quarterly event is part of Chainlink’s ongoing strategy to manage liquidity and support its ecosystem, but it has also triggered notable market reactions.
What Happened?
On June 21, 2025, Chainlink transferred nearly 18 million LINK tokens from its non-circulating reserves to Binance . This move is consistent with previous unlocks, where the majority of released tokens are sent to centralized exchanges, particularly Binance. Since August 2022, about 80% of all unlocked LINK—nearly 170 million tokens—have ended up on Binance, highlighting a clear pattern in Chainlink’s liquidity management.
Market Impact: Price and Sentiment
The latest unlock coincided with a surge in LINK inflows to exchanges, with over $225 million worth of tokens moving onto trading platforms this week. Such large inflows typically signal increased sell-side activity, as more tokens become available for trading. As a result, LINK’s price dropped over 5% in 24 hours and has fallen 30% in the past month, reaching its lowest level since April at around $11,8.
Despite the short-term bearish sentiment, some analysts note that previous unlocks have sometimes been followed by price recoveries, as increased liquidity can attract new buyers and support market depth. However, the immediate effect has been downward pressure on LINK’s price, reflecting cautious trader sentiment.
Why Does Chainlink Unlock Tokens?
Chainlink’s scheduled unlocks are designed to gradually increase the circulating supply, supporting ecosystem growth and ensuring liquidity for partners and developers. With more than 300 million LINK tokens still locked, these events are expected to continue, shaping the token’s supply dynamics in the coming years 4.
Chainlink’s Role in DeFi and Stablecoins
Beyond price action, Chainlink remains a critical infrastructure provider for decentralized finance (DeFi). Its Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol (CCIP) enables secure token transfers across blockchains, while its Proof of Reserve services help validate stablecoin reserves, promoting transparency and regulatory compliance. As demand for stablecoins and cross-chain assets grows, Chainlink’s technology is likely to remain in high demand.
What’s Next for LINK?
Traders and investors are watching closely to see if LINK can rebound from its recent dip or if further sell-offs will occur. While short-term volatility is expected, long-term holders remain optimistic about Chainlink’s foundational role in the crypto ecosystem.
