Brokers: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in financial markets to refer to professionals who facilitate the buying and selling of assets like stocks, bonds, or real estate. They act as intermediaries between buyers and sellers.

• Stock brokers help clients buy and sell shares on the stock market.
• Real estate brokers assist individuals in purchasing and selling properties.

Often used in a broader sense than 'brokers.' Agents can represent clients in a variety of transactions, not limited to financial markets. This term is commonly used in real estate, insurance, and entertainment industries.

• A real estate agent helps people buy, sell, or rent properties.
• A talent agent represents actors, negotiating contracts and finding work opportunities.

Generally used within the context of retail and wholesale trade, automobile sales, and sometimes financial markets. Dealers often take ownership of the goods they sell and may hold inventory.

• A car dealer sells new and used vehicles to customers.
• An art dealer buys and sells works of art, often holding pieces in inventory until they are sold.

Used mainly to refer to individuals who buy and sell financial instruments like stocks, bonds, commodities, and currencies for their own account or for their company's account. Can also be used more generally in the context of commerce.

• A day trader buys and sells stocks within the same trading day.
• International traders deal with buying and selling goods across different countries.

Used when talking about professionals who arrange transactions between buyers and sellers for a commission, often in financial markets such as stocks, commodities, or insurance.

• Stock brokers help individuals buy and sell shares on the stock market.
• Insurance brokers compare policies from different companies to find the best deal for their clients.

Refers to representatives who act on behalf of others in various dealings or negotiations, often in entertainment, sports, or real estate. The term 'agents' is broad and can apply to many different fields.

• Talent agents help actors and musicians find work and negotiate contracts.
• A sales agent assists customers in purchasing products and services.

Specifically refers to licensed professionals who assist clients in buying, selling, or renting properties. This term is most commonly used in the real estate industry.

• Realtors guide clients through the process of buying a home.
• You need to find a reliable realtor to list your house for sale.

Describes individuals who act as neutral third parties to help resolve conflicts or disputes between two or more parties. Often used in legal, business, or interpersonal contexts.

• Mediators assist divorcing couples in reaching a mutually acceptable agreement.
• A business mediator helps companies resolve contract disputes outside of court.