Kinked Interest Rate Curves

Definition

Kinked interest rate curves represent a non-linear term structure in cryptocurrency derivatives where the forward rate expectations shift abruptly at specific maturity points. This phenomenon typically emerges from localized supply-demand imbalances in lending markets or the distinct hedging behavior surrounding upcoming protocol events like governance votes or chain upgrades. Unlike standard continuous curves, these structural breaks indicate a market anticipating a discrete, high-impact change in liquidity conditions or systemic risk premiums.