Solvency Constraint
A solvency constraint is a rigorous mathematical condition that ensures a protocol always has sufficient assets to meet its obligations to users. In the context of decentralized lending or derivatives, this often involves maintaining a specific collateralization ratio for all outstanding positions.
If the value of the collateral drops below a certain threshold relative to the debt, the protocol must trigger liquidation to maintain solvency. This constraint is enforced through smart contract logic that monitors asset prices and user balances in real-time.
If the solvency constraint is violated, the protocol risks becoming under-collateralized, which can lead to a bank run or total failure. Developers use these constraints to build resilient systems that can withstand market volatility.
They are the core of risk management in any protocol that deals with leverage and credit.