Market Efficiency

Definition ∞ Market efficiency describes the degree to which asset prices accurately reflect all available information. In an efficient market, it is theoretically difficult to consistently achieve abnormal returns through trading strategies because prices rapidly adjust to new data. Various forms of market efficiency exist, ranging from weak to semi-strong to strong, each positing different levels of information incorporation into prices. The concept is foundational in financial economics and influences how market participants approach investment decisions.
Context ∞ The discussion surrounding market efficiency in digital assets often centers on whether cryptocurrencies exhibit characteristics of efficient markets, given their historical volatility and the rapid dissemination of information. Analysts debate the extent to which prices reflect all public and private information, with many suggesting that the market is still developing towards greater efficiency. The presence of arbitrage opportunities and information asymmetry are frequently cited points of contention in this ongoing evaluation.