Are Cryptos Safe-Haven Assets during Covid-19? Evidence from Wavelet Coherence Analysis

Abstract

This study adds to the inconclusive debate on safe-haven properties of cryptocurrencies during Covid-19 by analyzing the use of wavelet coherence framework on the global Covid-19 fear index, cryptocurrency implied volatility index (VCRIX), and cryptocurrency returns. Our findings show that a non-financial market-based proxy of market stress that represents fear of households and retail investors reveals cryptocurrencies as safe-haven assets; however, a financial market-based proxy of market turbulence exposes that cryptocurrencies behave like traditional assets during the times of Covid-19 pandemic. Our findings support that long-term investors can invest in the cryptocurrency market to hedge the risks during Covid-19 pandemic.