Market Structure Shift

Definition ∞ A market structure shift describes a fundamental alteration in how a particular market operates, including changes in participant types, trading mechanisms, regulatory frameworks, or technological infrastructure. In digital assets, this could involve a move from centralized exchanges to decentralized protocols, or the emergence of new asset classes. These shifts often result from technological advancements, evolving regulatory environments, or significant changes in investor behavior. Such transformations can redefine market efficiency and access.
Context ∞ The digital asset space is continuously experiencing market structure shifts, driven by innovation in decentralized finance and increasing regulatory oversight. A current discussion focuses on the ongoing migration of trading volume from centralized exchanges to on-chain decentralized platforms. This evolution presents both opportunities for greater transparency and challenges related to liquidity fragmentation and regulatory compliance across diverse trading venues.