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Does Anonymity Matter in Electronic Limit Order Markets?

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Listed:
  • Thierry Foucault
  • Sophie Moinas
  • Erik Theissen

Abstract

We develop a model in which limit order traders possess volatility information. We show that in this case the size of the bid-ask spread is informative about future volatility. Moreover, if volatility information is in part private, we establish that (i) the size of the bid-ask spread and (ii) its informativeness about future volatility should change in the same direction when limit order traders' identifiers stop being disclosed. We test these predictions using data from the Paris Bourse. As expected, we find that the average quoted spread and its informativeness are significantly smaller when limit order traders' identifiers are concealed. These findings suggest that the limit order book is a channel for volatility information. , Oxford University Press.

Suggested Citation

  • Thierry Foucault & Sophie Moinas & Erik Theissen, 2007. "Does Anonymity Matter in Electronic Limit Order Markets?," The Review of Financial Studies, Society for Financial Studies, vol. 20(5), pages 1707-1747, 2007 28.
    • Handle: RePEc:oup:rfinst:v:20:y:2007:i:5:p:1707-1747
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    JEL classification:

    • G10 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - General (includes Measurement and Data)
    • G14 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Information and Market Efficiency; Event Studies; Insider Trading
    • G24 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Investment Banking; Venture Capital; Brokerage

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