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FX Arbitrage and Market Liquidity: Statistical Significance and Economic Value

Author

Listed:
  • Wai-Ming Fong

    (The Chinese University of Hong Kong)

  • Giorgio Valente

    (University of Leicester, Hong Kong Institute for Monetary Research)

  • Joseph K.W. Fung

    (Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong Institute for Monetary Research)

Abstract

This paper studies covered interest parity arbitrage violations in foreign exchange markets and their relationship with market liquidity using a novel and unique dataset of tick-by-tick firm quotes for all financial instruments involved in the arbitrage strategy. The statistical analysis reveals that arbitrage opportunities are larger in size and slower to dissipate when market liquidity is poorer. Furthermore, their economic value is sizable but arbitrage profits only accrue to traders who are able to obtain low trading costs. These findings are consistent with a competitive equilibrium with real frictions when some traders have a comparative advantage in arbitrage trading.

Suggested Citation

  • Wai-Ming Fong & Giorgio Valente & Joseph K.W. Fung, 2008. "FX Arbitrage and Market Liquidity: Statistical Significance and Economic Value," Working Papers 082008, Hong Kong Institute for Monetary Research.
    • Handle: RePEc:hkm:wpaper:082008
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Gurnain Kaur Pasricha, 2009. "Bank Competition and International Financial Integration: Evidence using a new index," FIW Working Paper series 037, FIW.

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