™On a quote of $49.95 bid and $50.05 ask, bid-ask spread helps explain part of what can happen between submitting an order and receiving a fill.
Orders & Market Structure
Bid-ask spread
The difference between the best displayed bid and ask prices.
Plain-English context
Why it matters
Market-structure language affects how an instruction reaches the market and the price or execution a trader may actually receive.
Assuming Bid-ask spread has one universal interpretation without checking the source, rules, timeframe or methodology.
Use current definitions. Product terms, tax treatment and market rules can change. Confirm important details with official disclosures, regulators and regulated providers.