1. A term that refers to a temporary period in which access is limited or denied.

2. A period of around 60 days during which employees of a company with a retirement or investment plan cannot modify their plans. Notice must be given to employees in advance of a pending blackout.

1. This term is often in regards to contracts, policies and business activities. For example, when a political party is unable to advertise for a set amount of time before an election.

2. In a firm, a blackout period may happen because a plan is being restructured or altered, for example, if a pension fund is shifting from one fund manager to another at a different bank.