Cross-Chain Arbitrage: How to Bridge Tokens Between Chains for Profit

Why Cross-Chain Prices Differ

The same token (e.g., ETH) can trade at slightly different prices on Ethereum, Arbitrum, Optimism, and Base. These differences arise from varying liquidity depths, user activity, and bridge delays.

The Strategy

1. Monitor price differences with iSetMonitoring Cross-Chain Scanner
2. Buy the token on the cheaper chain
3. Bridge to the more expensive chain using fast bridges (Stargate, Across)
4. Sell immediately upon arrival

Best Bridges for Arbitrage

• Stargate — fastest for stablecoins, ~1-3 min
• Across Protocol — fast ETH bridging, competitive fees
• LayerZero — wide chain support
• Hop Protocol — good for L2↔L2 transfers

Profit Calculation

Net profit = (sell price - buy price) × amount - bridge fee - gas (both chains). Typical spreads: 0.1-0.5% for majors, 0.5-3% for altcoins.