Formalizing MEV: A Theoretical Framework for Blockchain Security Analysis ∞ Research

$Two large, fractured pieces of a crystalline object are prominently displayed, one clear and one deep blue, resting on a white, snow-like terrain. The background is a soft, light blue, providing a minimalist and stark contrast to the central elements$

The image displays a close-up of a sleek, transparent electronic device, revealing its intricate internal components. A prominent brushed metallic chip, likely a secure element, is visible through the blue-tinted translucent casing, alongside a circular button and glowing blue circuitry

Briefing

This research addresses the critical absence of a formal theoretical framework for Maximal Extractable Value (MEV) attacks, a pervasive issue where adversaries manipulate transaction ordering to extract value from smart contracts. It proposes a comprehensive, abstract model of blockchains and smart contracts, establishing a rigorous theoretical basis for MEV. This foundational theory enables the development of robust security proofs, which are essential for designing future blockchain architectures resilient to economic exploitation and enhancing overall system integrity.

A transparent mechanical system with glowing blue elements is shown against a grey background, featuring several piston-like components and a central, brightly illuminated blue data conduit. The intricate inner workings are visible through the clear casing, providing a conceptual view of a high-performance blockchain architecture

Context

Prior to this work, MEV was largely understood through empirical observations of economic attacks on DeFi protocols, lacking a cohesive theoretical foundation. The prevailing challenge involved widespread value extraction through transaction manipulation, which created systemic risks and undermined user trust without a formal model for analysis or mitigation. This empirical understanding presented a significant limitation for developing provably secure blockchain designs.

A luminous, translucent blue-grey amorphous structure elegantly envelops a vibrant, solid blue sphere, set against a subtle gradient background. The flowing, organic forms create a sense of depth and protection around the central element

Analysis

The paper introduces a formal theory of MEV by constructing a general, abstract model of blockchains and smart contracts. This model precisely defines the conditions under which adversaries can reorder, drop, or insert transactions to extract value. The core mechanism involves a rigorous mathematical framework that captures the strategic interactions enabling MEV, moving beyond anecdotal evidence to a provable understanding.

This approach fundamentally differs from previous empirical analyses by providing a basis for formal security proofs. The theory delineates the precise boundaries of MEV, offering a conceptual blueprint for mitigating these complex economic attacks.

A sleek, high-tech portable device is presented at an angle, featuring a prominent translucent blue top panel. This panel reveals an array of intricate mechanical gears, ruby bearings, and a central textured circular component, all encased within a polished silver frame

Parameters

Core Concept ∞ Maximal Extractable Value Theory
New System/Protocol ∞ Formal MEV Model
Key Authors ∞ Bartoletti, M. et al.
Problem Addressed ∞ Insufficient MEV theoretical foundations
Application Domain ∞ Public Blockchains, DeFi Protocols

A large, faceted blue crystalline structure, reminiscent of a massive immutable ledger shard, forms the central focus, with a luminous full moon embedded within its depths. White snow or frost accents the crystal's contours, suggesting cold storage for digital assets

Outlook

This foundational theory opens new avenues for designing blockchain protocols with inherent MEV resistance, moving towards provably secure decentralized finance. Future research will leverage this abstract model to construct and verify mitigation strategies, leading to more equitable and robust on-chain environments. The practical application of this work will involve architecting blockchain systems that are resilient to economic manipulation, fostering greater trust and adoption within the ecosystem.

The image displays three abstract, smoothly contoured shapes intertwined against a soft gradient background. A vibrant, opaque dark blue form, a frosted translucent light blue shape, and a glossy white element are interconnected, suggesting a fluid, sculptural arrangement

Verdict

This research establishes the indispensable theoretical bedrock for understanding and actively combating Maximal Extractable Value, fundamentally strengthening blockchain security paradigms.

Signal Acquired from ∞ arxiv.org