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Information and Market Power in DeFi Intermediation

Author

Listed:
  • Pablo D. Azar
  • Adrian Casillas
  • Maryam Farboodi

Abstract

This paper considers the “DeFi intermediation chain”—the market structure that underlies the creation and distribution of ETH, the native cryptocurrency of Ethereum—to examine how information asymmetry shapes intermediation rents. We argue that using proof-of-stake blockchain technology in DeFi leads to a novel limit to arbitrage, arising from the tension between arbitrageurs' privacy needs and blockchain transparency. Using a new dataset which distinguishes private and public transactions in Ethereum, we find that a 1% increase in private information advantage leads to a 1.4% increase in intermediaries' profit share. We develop a dynamic bargaining model that predicts information market power stems exclusively from participants' private information advantage. Our analysis illustrates how blockchain technology can sustain arbitrage opportunities despite low entry barriers.

Suggested Citation

  • Pablo D. Azar & Adrian Casillas & Maryam Farboodi, 2024. "Information and Market Power in DeFi Intermediation," NBER Working Papers 32949, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    • Handle: RePEc:nbr:nberwo:32949
    Note: AP CF
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    Cited by:

    1. Phoebe Tian & Yu Zhu, 2025. "Liquidation Mechanisms and Price Impacts in DeFi," Staff Working Papers 25-12, Bank of Canada.

    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • C83 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Data Collection and Data Estimation Methodology; Computer Programs - - - Survey Methods; Sampling Methods
    • D82 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Asymmetric and Private Information; Mechanism Design
    • D86 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Economics of Contract Law
    • G23 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Non-bank Financial Institutions; Financial Instruments; Institutional Investors
    • G29 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Other
    • L86 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Services - - - Information and Internet Services; Computer Software

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