Dynamic Volatility Propagation of Cryptocurrency Types

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the volatility spillovers between Bitcoin and Ethereum, the two main actors in the cryptocurrency market, and altcoins across sectoral and financial groups. Using data from January 1, 2021, to March 6, 2023, the study applied the VAR-based method developed by Diebold and Yılmaz (2012) and measured both directional and total volatility spillovers. The findings show that Bitcoin's volatility largely stems from internal dynamics and spreads to other cryptocurrencies to a limited extent. In contrast, Ethereum is more affected by external shocks and exhibits a stronger volatility spillover across the market. Among altcoin categories, Gaming, Analytics, and DeFi groups were found to be the most influential in volatility transmission, while thematic tokens such as NFT, Web3, and Metaverse were more sensitive to external volatility. In contrast, stablecoins and tokens in the identity and healthcare sectors were found to have relatively low volatility and a more stable structure. These results offer important insights for investors and regulators regarding risk management strategies and portfolio diversification. The study provides a valuable framework for understanding the systematic volatility dynamics within the cryptocurrency ecosystem