Bid-ask spread
The spread is the difference between the displayed best ask and best bid.
Plain-language meaning
The spread is the difference between the displayed best ask and best bid.
Why it is useful
Bid-ask spread is useful as descriptive evidence when it is compared on the same definition, source, period, unit and exact listing. It is one input to research, not a verdict.
Where it appears in XMarketRadar
Look for Bid-ask spread on Market Details, quotes, order/price context, watchlists and screener result columns when the selected provider supplies the field.
How it is calculated or sourced
Subtract the best displayed bid from the best displayed ask: spread = ask − bid. A percentage spread divides that result by a stated reference such as the midpoint.
Inputs, period and unit
Read the disclosed inputs or source, observation period, bar interval, unit, native currency and scale. A value without its source and as-of context is incomplete; unlike units must not be combined.
Worked example
Illustrative only: With a ₹99.90 bid and ₹100.10 ask, the spread is ₹0.20. Against the ₹100 midpoint, that is about 0.20%.
What high and low mean
A higher or lower Bid-ask spread value is descriptive, not automatically good or bad. Meaning depends on the instrument, comparison period, method and related evidence.
Positive, negative and genuine zero
Positive and negative Bid-ask spread values retain the definition shown here. A genuine reported or computed zero is displayed as 0 and is not the same as missing evidence.
Limitations and common mistakes
Bid-ask spread may differ by provider definition, observation time, instrument and venue. Common mistakes are dropping units or dates, comparing unlike scopes, and treating a missing value as zero.
Market-specific differences
The concept is used across all supported markets, but currency, price scale, session calendar, source field and regulatory definition can differ. XMarketRadar preserves the exact exchange context.
Suggested next steps
Open the related Market structure terms below, then follow the matching Help Centre task guide and inspect Bid-ask spread on an exact exchange listing. Confirm source, as-of time, units and unavailable reason before using it in research.
Educational information only; not investment advice or an order service.
This Bid-ask spread tutorial is educational and descriptive. It is not investment advice, a price prediction, a recommendation, or an instruction to buy, sell, rebalance or place an order.