Scalper Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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scalper
[หskรฆlpษr ]
Definitions
finance trading
A scalper is a trader who attempts to profit from small price changes in a stock or other asset. Scalpers usually make many trades in a day, seeking to 'scalp' small profits from each transaction. This strategy requires intensive monitoring and quick buying and selling.
Synonyms
day trader, speculator, trader.
Examples of usage
- The scalper executed multiple trades within a few hours.
- He identified an upward trend and decided to scalp the price increase.
- The scalper's strategy was to minimize risk by closing positions quickly.
- Many scalpers use automated trading systems to enhance their speed.
ticket reselling
In the context of ticket reselling, a scalper is a person who sells tickets to events at inflated prices after purchasing them. This practice can often be seen as unethical, as it can prevent genuine fans from accessing tickets at face value.
Synonyms
price gouger, ticket reseller, ticket tout.
Examples of usage
- The scalper charged double the face value for the concert tickets.
- She reported the scalper to the authorities for illegal ticket sales.
- Scalpers often use online bots to purchase tickets quickly.
- Many cities have laws targeting scalpers to protect consumers.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Economics
- Scalping is often seen as a market failure because it can prevent genuine fans from accessing events at reasonable prices.
- The practice can lead to increased prices, creating a barrier for average consumers and driving them out of the market.
- In some jurisdictions, there are laws regulating or banning scalping to protect consumers and keep prices fair.
Technology
- With the rise of online ticket sales, scalpers have used automated software, or 'bots,' to buy tickets faster than humans.
- Some platforms are now employing technology to detect and block scalpers from purchasing tickets in bulk.
- The introduction of blockchain technology aims to create more secure ways to verify ticket ownership and reduce scalping.
Culture
- Scalping has led to a segment of popular culture where fans express disdain for scalpers, often making memes to highlight frustration.
- In response to scalping practices, some artists and venues have tried alternative ticketing strategies, like lottery systems or using fan clubs.
- Concert-goers often share stories and strategies online to help each other get tickets before scalpers snap them up.
Legal Issues
- Many regions have enacted specific laws that limit scalping practices, particularly during high-demand events.
- Some countries impose fines or restrictions on the resale of tickets above their face value to combat scalpers.
- Legal consequences can include the cancellation of tickets purchased for resale, deterring individuals from scalping.
Origin of 'scalper'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'scalper' originated from the word 'scalp,' meaning to cut off the top layer, referring metaphorically to taking off a ticket's original value.
- The word became widely used in the 20th century, particularly in connection with the resale of concert and event tickets.
- In some regions, itโs been colloquially referred to as 'ticket scalping,' indicating the trade of tickets for profit.
The term 'scalper' originated in the late 19th century, most likely deriving from the word 'scalp,' which means to remove the scalp of an enemy. In financial contexts, it took on a different meaning related to quickly 'removing' profits from fluctuations in stock prices. The usage of the term evolved as trading strategies became more sophisticated, especially with the rise of day trading and algorithmic trading in the late 20th century. In popular culture, scalpers gained notoriety not only in financial markets but also in the realm of ticket sales, where they have been associated with unethical practices that exploit demand for popular events. Over the years, various regulations have emerged seeking to limit the impact of scalpers in both markets, emphasizing the continuing evolution of the term in different contexts.