Propagation Efficiency

Definition

Propagation efficiency describes the rate at which information regarding price movements or order flow imbalances permeates a decentralized derivatives ecosystem. In high-frequency cryptocurrency markets, this metric gauges the temporal lag between a primary exchange signal and the subsequent reaction across fragmented liquidity pools. Quantitative analysts utilize this concept to determine how rapidly arbitrage opportunities are eliminated by automated trading systems. High efficiency levels indicate near-instantaneous price discovery, while low efficiency reflects institutional friction and structural latency.