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Arbitrage opportunities and efficiency tests in crypto derivatives

Author

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  • Alexander, Carol
  • Chen, Xi
  • Deng, Jun
  • Wang, Tianyi

Abstract

We test the joint efficiency of the bitcoin and ether options and perpetual futures markets and identify the determinants of arbitrage opportunities. Our novel fiat-currency-free put–call parity relationship motivates new arbitrage tests for options-only and option–perpetual cross-markets. Bitcoin and ether derivatives markets are becoming more efficient, especially for options of maturity ≥ 15 days. Bitcoin derivative markets are generally more efficient than ether derivative markets, but arbitrage strategies can still be highly profitable even under conservative transaction cost scenarios, which include slippage for large orders, especially during periods of high trading volumes or when the blockchain traffic becomes more congested.

Suggested Citation

  • Alexander, Carol & Chen, Xi & Deng, Jun & Wang, Tianyi, 2024. "Arbitrage opportunities and efficiency tests in crypto derivatives," Journal of Financial Markets, Elsevier, vol. 71(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:finmar:v:71:y:2024:i:c:s138641812400048x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.finmar.2024.100930
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    JEL classification:

    • G11 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Portfolio Choice; Investment Decisions
    • G32 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Financing Policy; Financial Risk and Risk Management; Capital and Ownership Structure; Value of Firms; Goodwill

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