What does hold-outs mean here?

[english-learner]

In both scenarios, however, a key issue will be what happens to hold-outs.

[Casiopea]

It appears to be technical language, or language used in a certain field. Have you tried searching under 'hold-outs dictionary'? That's what I would do.

[M56]

In both scenarios, however, a key issue will be what happens to hold-outs.

Shouldn't it be holdouts (noun)?

Meaning #1: a negotiator who hopes to gain concessions by refusing to come to terms

Meaning #2: a refusal by a negotiator to come to terms in the hope of obtaining a better deal

http://www.answers.com/holdouts&r=67

[english-learner]

Thank you for your help, M56.