Broker

Broker

An individual who is paid a commission for executing customer orders. Either a floor broker who executes orders on the floor of the exchange, or an upstairs broker who handles retail customers and their orders. Also, person who acts as an intermediary between a buyer and seller, usually charging a commission. A "broker" who specializes in stocks, bonds, commodities, or options acts as an agent and must be registered with the exchange where the securities are traded. Antithesis of dealer.

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broker

1. An individual or a firm that brings together buyers and sellers but does not take a position in the asset to be exchanged. Some observers believe a broker provides an unbiased opinion on a security since there is little self-interest involved in the transaction. Compare dealer.

2. See registered representative.

What should I look for in a broker?

When interviewing prospective brokers, you should look for one with a clean NASD record, great referrals, and stability in his or her business. In addition, he or she should not be transaction oriented but should instead be concerned about your values and goals and be willing to realize that the best trade may be no trade. In summary, you should look for a financial advisor rather than just a "broker."

George Riles, First Vice President and Resident Manager, Merrill Lynch, Albany, GA

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Broker. A broker acts as an agent or intermediary for a buyer and a seller. The buyer, seller, and broker may all be individuals, or one or more may be a business or other institution.

For example, a stockbroker works for a brokerage firm, and handles client orders to buy or sell stocks, bonds, commodities, and options in return for a commission or asset-based fee.

Stockbrokers must pass a uniform examination administered by the NASD and must register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

A floor broker handles buy and sell orders on the floor of a securities or commodities exchange. A real estate broker represents the seller in a real estate transaction and receives a commission on the sale.

If as a real estate buyer you hire someone to represent your interests, that person is known as a buyer's agent. A mortgage or insurance broker acts as an intermediary in finding a mortgage or insurance policy for his or her client and also receives a commission.