High-frequency asymmetric volatility connectedness between Bitcoin and major precious metals markets

Abstract

This study examines the asymmetric volatility connectedness between Bitcoin and major precious metals markets (gold, silver, palladium, and platinum). We use high-frequency data with methodologies introduced by Diebold and Yilmaz (2014) and Baruník, Kočcenda, and Vácha (2017). The results show evidence of significant volatility spillover effects between Bitcoin and precious metals. Moreover, the risk spillovers vary over time and are sensitive to slowdowns in economic activity and political events (e.g., the Brexit vote and the US presidential election). Palladium is the largest net contributor of spillovers while Bitcoin is a net recipient. Finally, evidence of asymmetry in semi-volatility transmission shows that Bitcoin heavily transmits net-positive spillovers to other assets. The results of our research are of interest and importance to investors, portfolio managers, and policy-makers, as the results can readily inform their decision-making.