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Decentralization through Tokenization

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  • MICHAEL SOCKIN
  • WEI XIONG

Abstract

We examine decentralization of digital platforms through tokenization as an innovation to resolve the conflict between platforms and users. By delegating control to users, tokenization through utility tokens acts as a commitment device that prevents a platform from exploiting users. This commitment comes at the cost of not having an owner with an equity stake who, in conventional platforms, would subsidize participation to maximize the platform's network effect. This trade‐off makes utility tokens a more appealing funding scheme than equity for platforms with weak fundamentals. The conflict reappears when nonusers, such as token investors and validators, participate on the platform.

Suggested Citation

  • Michael Sockin & Wei Xiong, 2023. "Decentralization through Tokenization," Journal of Finance, American Finance Association, vol. 78(1), pages 247-299, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:jfinan:v:78:y:2023:i:1:p:247-299
    DOI: 10.1111/jofi.13192
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Van de Vyver, Mark, 2023. "Token economics scoping review: Annotated bibliography," MPRA Paper 118476, University Library of Munich, Germany.
    2. Yousaf, Imran & Youssef, Manel & Goodell, John W., 2024. "Tail connectedness between artificial intelligence tokens, artificial intelligence ETFs, and traditional asset classes," Journal of International Financial Markets, Institutions and Money, Elsevier, vol. 91(C).
    3. Rodney Garratt & Maarten RC van Oordt, 2024. "Crypto Exchange Tokens," BIS Working Papers 1201, Bank for International Settlements.
    4. Bhambhwani, Siddharth M. & Huang, Allen H., 2024. "Auditing decentralized finance," The British Accounting Review, Elsevier, vol. 56(2).
    5. Zhang, Xu & Naeem, Muhammad Abubakr & Du, Yuting & Rauf, Abdul, 2024. "Examining the bidirectional ripple effects in the NFT markets: Risky center or hedging center?," Journal of Behavioral and Experimental Finance, Elsevier, vol. 41(C).
    6. Yonggen Luo & Miaomiao Fang & Antai Li & Shiqiang Chen, 2024. "Opportunity or opportunism? Blockchain technology adoption and corporate default risk," Palgrave Communications, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 11(1), pages 1-14, December.
    7. Kogana, Shimon & Makarov, Igor & Niessnerc, Marina & Schoar, Antoinette, 2024. "Are cryptos different? Evidence from retail trading," LSE Research Online Documents on Economics 122266, London School of Economics and Political Science, LSE Library.
    8. Christian Zeiß & Myriam Schaschek & Lisa Straub & Christoph Tomitza & Axel Winkelmann, 2024. "Re-intermediation of the crypto asset ecosystem by banks: An empirical study on acceptance drivers among the populace," Electronic Markets, Springer;IIM University of St. Gallen, vol. 34(1), pages 1-24, December.
    9. Jan Schwiderowski & Asger Balle Pedersen & Jonas Kasper Jensen & Roman Beck, 2023. "Value creation and capture in decentralized finance markets: Non-fungible tokens as a class of digital assets," Electronic Markets, Springer;IIM University of St. Gallen, vol. 33(1), pages 1-16, December.

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