Brokers

A broker is a person or firm that acts as an intermediary to facilitate a trade or agreement between two or more parties. Brokers typically do not own the assets they are dealing with; their income comes from fees, commissions, or spreads earned for arranging the transaction.

In financial markets, stock, commodity, and forex brokers provide access to marketplaces, execute orders, and offer advisory services. They may also manage client accounts, provide market research, and perform due diligence. Payment is usually by commissions or brokerage fees; some firms earn revenue from the spread on trades or from advisory fees.

Real estate brokers assist buyers and sellers in property transactions, help price negotiations, prepare paperwork, and coordinate inspections and closing processes. They typically earn a percentage-based commission on the sale price, paid by the seller, and must be licensed in the relevant jurisdiction, with duties defined by law and professional rules.

Insurance brokers help clients compare policies from multiple insurers, advise on coverage needs, and facilitate policy placement and renewal. They are licensed in their jurisdiction and may earn commissions or fees from insurers or clients.

Other broker roles include freight brokers in logistics, who arrange shipments between shippers and carriers, and introduce brokers in various professional services markets. Brokers may operate independently or as part of broker-dealer, real estate, or brokerage firms.

Regulation and ethics: brokers are subject to licensing, registration, and conduct rules designed to protect clients, ensure fair dealing, and maintain market integrity. Activities such as conflicts of interest, fiduciary duties, disclosure, and client fund handling are governed by jurisdiction-specific frameworks.