NDD Glossary
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Market Maker

An entity that continuously quotes both buy and sell prices, profiting from the spread and providing liquidity to the market.

Last updated: February 1, 2026
1

The market maker continuously quotes both a bid and ask price for an asset.

2

They profit from the spread between these two prices.

3

When a trader buys, the market maker sells from its inventory; when a trader sells, the market maker buys.

4

The market maker manages risk by adjusting quotes based on inventory, market conditions, and flow toxicity.

5

In broker context, "market making" often means the broker is acting as the counterparty (B-book).