What happens if a token is sold in a presale?

Inquiring minds want to know: What are the implications when a token is sold in a presale? Is it an indicator of the token's future success or merely a funding mechanism? Does it affect the market capitalization or token distribution? Does it grant the early investors preferential treatment or unique privileges? Furthermore, how does it influence the project's credibility and trustworthiness? Additionally, what safeguards are in place to ensure a fair and transparent presale process? These are just some of the questions that arise when considering the implications of a token being sold in a presale.