The difference between the highest price buyers will pay (bid) and lowest sellers will accept (ask).
In depth
Spread is a transaction cost — you typically buy at ask and sell at bid. Tight spreads (pennies) indicate liquid markets; wide spreads indicate illiquidity. Market makers profit from spreads.
Frequently asked about Bid-Ask Spread
What is Bid-Ask Spread?
The difference between the highest price buyers will pay (bid) and lowest sellers will accept (ask). Spread is a transaction cost — you typically buy at ask and sell at bid. Tight spreads (pennies) indicate liquid markets; wide spreads indicate illiquidity. Market makers profit from spreads.
Why does Bid-Ask Spread matter for investors?
In markets, Bid-Ask Spread is one of the building blocks investors use to compare opportunities and assess risk. Understanding it helps you read research notes, earnings reports, and market commentary without getting lost in jargon.
How is Bid-Ask Spread used in practice?
Spread is a transaction cost — you typically buy at ask and sell at bid. Tight spreads (pennies) indicate liquid markets; wide spreads indicate illiquidity.