Two prices at once
The is the highest price a buyer is currently willing to pay. The (or offer) is the lowest price a seller is willing to accept. You buy at the ask and sell at the bid.
The 'price' shown on a chart is often the mid-point or the bid, depending on the platform.
Bid, ask and spread
Bid · you sell here
2,410.20
Spread
0.30
Ask · you buy here
2,410.50
Educational illustration · not a live price or trading recommendation
Key takeaways
- Buy at the ask, sell at the bid.
- Charts may show bid or mid prices.
Knowledge check
When you buy, you usually pay the…
Key terms · hover or tap for a definition