The Bank of Italy has conducted a detailed analysis of the potential risks if Ether (ETH) were to collapse to zero, framing the cryptocurrency not just as a speculative asset but as critical financial infrastructure supporting Ethereum-based payment and settlement systems. The study highlights how a severe price shock could translate into operational and systemic risks for financial markets.
In a research paper titled “What if Ether Goes to Zero? How Market Risk Becomes Infrastructure Risk in Crypto,” Bank of Italy economist Claudia Biancotti examined the connection between ETH price volatility and the security of Ethereum’s blockchain. The study models how validators, who secure the network in exchange for ETH rewards, might react if the token lost all value. A significant exodus of validators could reduce network security, slow block production, and compromise Ethereum’s ability to guarantee transaction finality.
The paper emphasizes that Ethereum increasingly functions as a settlement layer for stablecoins and tokenized financial instruments. As such, extreme market shocks could have cascading effects, affecting payments, settlements, and financial stability. Regulators face a choice: either restrict reliance on volatile public blockchains for regulated services, or allow use under risk mitigation measures like contingency chains, business continuity plans, and minimum validator security standards.
By treating Ether as infrastructure-critical, the Bank of Italy highlights that crypto market risks can quickly become systemic risks. The analysis underscores the need for robust oversight as Ethereum and similar networks play an increasing role in financial markets.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.