Bridge Volume vs Net Cross-Chain Flow
Distinguish gross bridge throughput from net movement between networks, matching source and destination stages without counting both as separate economic transfers.
Overview
When translating these concepts into an integration, keep the scope described by the wallet history api with the result. The examples in wallet transaction history and smart contract event logs show how the same distinction affects neighbouring data questions.
A bridge can generate records on both source and destination networks. Gross throughput, directional flow and net flow are different measures that require a clear transfer identity.
Choose the counting boundary
Count a logical bridge transfer under a protocol-aware mapping, while retaining its chain-specific stages. Source locks and destination mints can represent the same intended movement. A metric that adds both without explanation doubles the cross-chain quantity. Refunds, failed delivery and liquidity routes need their own states.
Worked example: opposing directions
One hundred units move from A to B and eighty from B to A under compatible asset and valuation rules. Gross directional throughput totals 180; net flow toward B is twenty. Reporting twenty as total bridge usage or 180 as net migration answers the wrong question.
Track completion and conversion
Specify whether the metric counts initiated, delivered or settled transfers. Preserve asset representation mappings and conversion methods. Test delayed destination execution and unmatched messages. A source-stage observation should not become confirmed destination liquidity merely because it contributes to an initiation-volume chart.
A practical acceptance test
Match one-hundred units A-to-B and eighty B-to-A under compatible representation rules. Assert gross 180 and net twenty toward B. Source and destination stages must not double those totals. Leave one destination unresolved and verify that initiated and completed metrics remain distinct instead of assigning delivery from the source transaction’s success.
Questions about the topic
Frequently asked questions
Is source lock plus destination mint twice the volume?
Only under a deliberately stage-counted metric; it is often one logical transfer.
Does net flow measure all usage?
No. Opposing directions can cancel in net while gross activity remains high.
Standards & technical documentation
