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OP_Expire and Coinbase-Like Behavior: Making HTLCs Safer by Letting Transactions Expire Safely

OP_Expire and Coinbase-Like Behavior: Making HTLCs Safer by Letting Transactions Expire Safely

Original Postby Peter Todd

Posted on: November 2, 2023 06:26 UTC

The email discussion revolves around the distinction between anchor channels and non-anchor channels, specifically in relation to fee bumping and spending outputs.

In the case of anchor channels, outputs other than the anchor outputs cannot be spent until the commitment transaction is mined. This renders the concepts of Replace-By-Fee (RBF) and Child-Pays-for-Parent (CPFP) irrelevant.

Anchor channels, as explained in further detail on https://petertodd.org, refer to a type of channel where certain outputs are designated as anchor outputs. These anchor outputs play a crucial role in fee bumping. However, it is important to note that non-anchor outputs in anchor channels are subject to restrictions and cannot be spent until the commitment transaction is confirmed.

The email highlights the fact that due to these restrictions, RBF/CPFP does not come into play when dealing with anchor channels. This is because these mechanisms are typically used to adjust transaction fees and prioritize transactions based on their fee rates. However, since anchor outputs in anchor channels have specific rules surrounding their spending, the ability to utilize RBF/CPFP for fee adjustments is not applicable.

It is worth noting that the provided link, https://petertodd.org, provides more detailed information about anchor channels and related concepts.