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An Equilibrium Model of the Market for Bitcoin Mining

Author

Listed:
  • Julien Prat

    (CREST; CNRS; Université Paris- Saclay; CESifo; IZA)

  • Walter Benjamin

    (CREST; Université Paris-Saclay)

Abstract

We propose a model which uses the Bitcoin/US dollar exchange rate to predict the computing power of the Bitcoin network. We show that free entry places an upper-bound on mining revenues and we devise a structural framework to measure its value. Calibrating the model’s parameters allows us to accurately forecast the evolution of the network computing power over time. We establish the accuracy of the model through out-of-sample tests and investigation of the entry rule.

Suggested Citation

  • Julien Prat & Walter Benjamin, 2017. "An Equilibrium Model of the Market for Bitcoin Mining," Working Papers 2017-15, Center for Research in Economics and Statistics.
    • Handle: RePEc:crs:wpaper:2017-15
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Bitcoin; Blockchain; Miners; Industry Dynamics;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D41 - Microeconomics - - Market Structure, Pricing, and Design - - - Perfect Competition
    • L10 - Industrial Organization - - Market Structure, Firm Strategy, and Market Performance - - - General

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