Predatory Execution

Execution

Predatory execution, within cryptocurrency and derivatives markets, denotes a trading practice exploiting informational asymmetries or technological advantages to systematically disadvantage other market participants. This often manifests as front-running, where a trader with privileged access to order flow executes trades ahead of larger orders, capitalizing on anticipated price movements. The practice undermines fair order execution and can erode market confidence, particularly in decentralized exchanges lacking robust surveillance mechanisms. Quantitatively, its impact is measured by adverse selection costs and increased implicit trading fees for legitimate investors.