Long memory in the high frequency cryptocurrency markets using fractal connectivity analysis: The impact of COVID-19

Abstract

In this paper, we study the long memory behavior of the hourly cryptocurrency returns during the COVID-19 pandemic period. Initially, we apply different tests against the spurious long memory, with the results indicating the presence of true long memory for most cryptocurrencies. Yet, using the multivariate test, the series are found to be contaminated by level shifts or smooth trends. Then, we adopt the wavelet-based multivariate long memory approach suggested by Achard and Gannaz (2016) to model their long memory connectivity. The findings indicate a change in persistence for all series during the sample period. The fractal connectivity clustering indicates a similarity among Ethereum (ETH) and Litecoin (LTC), Monero (XMR), Bitcoin (BTC), and EOC token (EOS), while Stellar (XLM) is clustered away from the remaining series, indicating the absence of any interdependence with other crypto returns. Overall, shocks arising from COVID-19 crisis have led to changes in long-run correlation structure.