MEV: measure the execution, not just the chart

Maximal extractable value includes value captured by controlling transaction inclusion and ordering. For a trader, the observable question is how the final execution compares with the expected trade after accounting for fees, price impact and the permitted slippage.

Reconstruct the sequence Record the pool state before the trade and the surrounding transactions. A price move alone is not proof of a sandwich. The stronger claim needs a sequence showing how the relevant transactions relate to the victim's execution and the extracted value.

Separate competing explanations Ordinary market movement, a thin pool and a large order can also produce a poor fill. Compare those explanations before attributing the result to manipulation. Document the assumptions and avoid treating every unfavourable trade as evidence of coordination.

Evaluate protection by its scope A private route or protective setting should be assessed against the mechanism it claims to address. It does not remove all execution risk. A practical review records the quote, minimum output, fees and actual balance changes. The final received amount is more informative than a promotional promise about execution quality.