Nexus of Digitized and Unified Markets
NDUM is an independent research center dedicated to advancing the understanding of how technology transforms market dynamics, financial services, and economic policy.
Our Mission
Relationships underpin all human interactions; markets are no exception. In transactions, parties often attempt to signal trustworthiness and authenticity (whether or not that authenticity is genuine) to establish or maintain perceived relationships.
Our goal is to uncover the mechanisms through which relationships are formed, trust is built, and reputations are created or destroyed. Through our publications, datasets, and analytical tools, we bridge the gap between academic research and practical application.
Research Agenda
Our research spans four interconnected areas, from the technologies redefining exchange to the structures governing market behavior.
Innovation & Technology
Examining patents, trademarks, blockchain, and smart contracts, including the role of cryptographic assets in reshaping ownership and digital exchange.
Economics of Punishment
Assessing the effectiveness of punitive measures imposed to curb financial misconduct and how sanctions influence deterrence, rehabilitation, and governance.
Market Participation
Investigating the behavior of parties and counterparties within transactions: how participants engage markets and their effects on price and liquidity.
Market Microstructure
Studying the formation of networks within markets, including trading relationships and institutional linkages across established and emerging economies.
Team
NDUM is led by experienced researchers with backgrounds spanning academia, industry, and policy.
Rodney Ndum, PhD
Founder & Director
Economist and researcher specializing in financial misconduct, market microstructure, and the economics of punishment. Research draws from experience studying patterns and impacts of bad actors.
Research Team
Contributors & Alumni
A network of research assistants, analysts, and engineers contributing to NDUM publications, datasets, and analytical tools across finance and technology.
Get in Touch
Interested in collaborating on research, accessing our datasets, or learning more about our work? We'd love to hear from you.