How do cryptocurrencies connect? Insights from conventional cryptocurrencies, DeFi, NFTs, and gold-backed cryptocurrencies

Abstract This study investigates the dynamic connectedness within the cryptocurrency market by analyzing four distinct cryptomarket blocks: Bitcoin and Ethereum (conventional cryptocurrencies); PAXG, DGX, and GLC (gold-backed cryptocurrencies); LINK and MNK (decentralized finance); and THETA and MANA (nonfungible tokens). Using the time-varying parameter quantile vector autoregressive (TVP-Quantile VAR) model for the period 2019–2023, our analysis reveals significant insights into the risk transmission dynamics among cryptocurrencies. Both conventional cryptocurrencies exhibit a consistent net transmitter effect in extreme periods, whereas decentralized finance (DeFi) and nonfungible tokens (NFTs) shift between a net shock transmitter and a net shock receiver over time and quantiles. Moreover, our results shed light on the hedging and safe haven properties of these assets. By linking the dynamic connectedness findings with established literature on hedging and safe haven functions, we elucidate how these cryptocurrencies perform under varying market conditions. Specifically, we report that the role of LINK, MNK, THETA, and MANA as reliable safe-haven assets is contingent upon the observed period. We also observe the hedge and safe haven properties of selected gold-backed cryptocurrencies within the network. Overall, our findings suggest that, despite the dynamic connectedness of the cryptocurrency market, investors have the flexibility to diversify across these digital assets.