← Crypto

Crypto

Automated market makers (AMMs)

An automated market maker uses a formula and pooled liquidity to quote token prices without a traditional dealer for every trade.

How it works

Different AMMs use different curves, fee tiers and liquidity concentration rules. Trades change the ratio of assets in the pool and therefore the quoted price.

What to check

Check the pricing formula, liquidity depth and price impact for the intended trade size. Large orders in thin pools can move the execution price significantly.

  • Check price impact
  • Understand the curve
  • Compare pool price with broader markets

Limits and risks

AMM prices can diverge from broader markets until arbitrage closes the gap. Smart-contract and pool-token risks remain separate from the pricing mechanism.

Primary sources

Bitcoin Developer Reference↗Ethereum developer documentation↗FATF: Virtual Assets↗

General information only. Investment products can lose value, and terms, fees and regulation can change.