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The (Limited) Power of Blockchain Networks for Information Provision

Author

Listed:
  • Benedikt Franke

    (University of Würzburg, 97070 Würzburg, Germany)

  • Qi Gao Fritz

    (University of Mannheim, 68131 Mannheim, Germany)

  • André Stenzel

    (Bank of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0G9, Canada)

Abstract

We investigate the potential and limits of privacy-preserving corporate blockchain applications for information provision. We provide a theoretical model in which heterogeneous firms choose between adopting a blockchain application or relying on traditional third-party intermediaries to inform the capital market. The blockchain’s ability to generate information depends on each firm’s data profile and all firms’ endogenous adoption decisions. We show that blockchain technology can improve the information environment and outperform traditional institutions with firms’ adoption decisions serving as a credible value signal and the application uncovering firm values by analyzing all participating firms’ data. However, we also characterize an adverse mixed-adoption equilibrium in which neither of the two channels realizes its full potential and information provision declines not only for individual firms, but also in aggregate. The equilibrium is a warning sign that has broad implications for policymakers’ regulatory effort and investors’ assessment of corporate blockchain applications.

Suggested Citation

  • Benedikt Franke & Qi Gao Fritz & André Stenzel, 2024. "The (Limited) Power of Blockchain Networks for Information Provision," Management Science, INFORMS, vol. 70(2), pages 971-990, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:inm:ormnsc:v:70:y:2024:i:2:p:971-990
    DOI: 10.1287/mnsc.2023.4718
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

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    2. Tian, Jingyuan & Jia, Fu & Chen, Lujie & Xing, Xinjie, 2025. "The Impact of ISSB’s Scope 3 GHG Emissions Validation on US Manufacturers’ Stock Valuations: Analyzing the Role of Supplier Complexity," Transportation Research Part E: Logistics and Transportation Review, Elsevier, vol. 193(C).
    3. Jin, Minyue & Zhang, Xinxin & Yue, Xiaohang & Zuo, Qianzhou & Nie, Jiajia, 2025. "Consensus mechanism selection in Web 3.0 blockchain platforms: Proof of Work vs. Proof of Stake," Transportation Research Part E: Logistics and Transportation Review, Elsevier, vol. 200(C).
    4. Li, Ling & Yan, Shiyi & Peng, Shuxia & Hou, Pengwen, 2025. "The interplay of blockchain and channel structure with consideration of cyber-security in a platform supply chain," Transportation Research Part E: Logistics and Transportation Review, Elsevier, vol. 197(C).
    5. Lyu, Xiaoqi & Huo, Baofeng & Tian, Min, 2025. "The effect of blockchain implementation on supply chain disputes," International Journal of Production Economics, Elsevier, vol. 288(C).
    6. Li, Qing & Hadj-Hamou, Khaled & Rekik, Yacine, 2026. "Blockchain traceability valuation for perishable agricultural products: Balancing economic benefit and social impact," Transportation Research Part E: Logistics and Transportation Review, Elsevier, vol. 206(C).
    7. Mbanyele, William & Muchenje, Linda Tinofirei, 2025. "Towards a greener future: The role of blockchain legislation in promoting corporate green innovation," International Review of Economics & Finance, Elsevier, vol. 103(C).

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