Glossary · from the DESK dictionary
Market Order
An order executed immediately at the best available price.
In plain words
"Buy/sell now, regardless of the exact price" — execution certainty over price control.
In more detail
Market orders guarantee execution, but not the price — in thin liquidity, significant slippage can occur.
Example
A trader submits a market buy order and is filled immediately at the current ask price.
What it means for traders
The most common order type for traders who prioritize immediate execution.
Common pitfalls
In low liquidity or high volatility, the execution price can deviate substantially from the expected price (slippage).
Related terms
At Best Order · At-the-Close Order · Limit Order · Marketable Limit Order · Market If Touched (MIT) Order · Order · Slippage
From the DESK dictionary. For information only, not investment advice.
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DESK is a research tool and not investment advice. Page generated: 2026-10-12.