Market maker

Updated 2026-09-20

Definition

A broker that acts as counterparty to clients' trades and sets its own prices.

Why it matters

It has a potential conflict of interest (if the client loses, the broker gains), mitigated by regulation. Execution quality and regulatory oversight are the key selection criteria.

Practical example

Many retail brokers are market makers on the main pairs and route large orders to the market.

Related entries

Want to compare notes with other traders?

Join the community to share ideas and questions, or the free signal room on Telegram.

Full glossary

Educational content, not financial advice. Trading involves risk.