Broker
A broker is an individual or firm that acts as an intermediary between buyers and sellers to facilitate the purchase and sale of securities, real estate, insurance, or other financial instruments. Brokers earn a commission or fee for their services, which can be based on the transaction amount, a flat fee, or a combination of both. In financial markets, brokers execute trades on behalf of clients, providing access to various markets and investment products. Brokers can also offer additional services such as investment advice, portfolio management, and financial planning.
Example
An individual looking to buy shares of a company would place an order through a stockbroker, who would then execute the trade on a stock exchange and charge a commission for the service.
Key points
• A broker acts as an intermediary between buyers and sellers in transactions.
• Brokers earn commissions or fees for facilitating trades.
• They can offer additional services such as investment advice and portfolio management.