Spread

Trader's Glossary · Order flow

Spread

Definition. The difference between the best offer (ask) and the best bid.

How it works

The spread is the cost of immediacy: whoever wants to buy or sell right now pays it to the side waiting with a limit order. In liquid markets it's usually one tick.

Example

Bid 51,907, ask 51,908: the spread is 1 point. Just before a data release it can widen to several points.

What to watch out for

A wide spread signals low liquidity and the risk of slippage.

See also

Bid and ask, Slippage, DOM (order book).

More in Hetman Capital Club

You'll find the full explanation with graphics, examples and exercises in the 🖥️ Order flow atlas space, and its use in the live market in the 🔴 Live Room. Both are available to Club members (in Polish).

Educational content, not investment advice.