Lot

Dictionary Says

Definition of 'Lot'

In general, any group of goods or services making up a transaction. In the financial markets, a lot represents the standardized quantity of a financial instrument as set out by an exchange or similar regulatory body. For exchange-traded securities, a lot may represent the minimum quantity of that security that may be traded.
Investopedia Says

Investopedia explains 'Lot'

In terms of stocks, the lot is the number of shares you purchase in one transaction. In terms of options, a lot represents the number of contracts contained in one derivative security.

The concept of lots allows the financial markets to standardize price quotes. For example, equity options are priced such that each contract (or lot) represents exercise rights for 100 underlying shares of common stock. With such standardization, investors always know exactly how many units they are buying with each contract and can easily assess what price per unit they are paying. Without such standardization, valuing and trading options would be needlessly cumbersome and time consuming.

Sign Up For Term of the Day!

Try Our Stock Simulator!

Test your trading skills!

Related Definitions

  1. Odd Lot

    An order amount ...
  2. Round Lot

    A group of 100 ...
  3. Job Lot

    A futures ...
  4. Board Lot

    A standardized ...
  5. Bunching

    The combining of ...
  6. Odd Lot Theory

    A technical ...
  7. Odd Lotter

    An individual ...
  8. Even Lot

    A normal unit of ...
  9. Mixed Lot

    A type of order ...
  10. Mini-Lot

    A currency ...

Articles Of Interest

  1. The Nitty-Gritty Of Executing A Trade

    Ever wonder what happens behind the scenes when you buy or sell a stock? Read on and find out!
  2. Using Tax Lots: A Way To Minimize Taxes

    The method of identifying cost basis can help you to get the most out of reduced tax rates.
  3. Forex Trading The Martingale Way

    The Martingale system boasts a 100% success rate, if you have the money. Find out if this is the right strategy for you.
  4. What's the smallest number of shares I can buy?

  5. How does leverage affect pip value?

  6. Break Out Of Your Comfort Zone And Win

    Fear of breaking out of a comfort zone can prevent an investor from reaching his or her full potential.
  7. Retirement Savings Tips For 35- To 44-Year-Olds

    Learn how the "sandwich generation" can save for retirement while taking care of their kids and parents.
  8. Derivatives 101

    Learn how to use this type of investment as an alternative way to participate in the market.
  9. Risk Tolerance Only Tells Half The Story

    Just because you're willing to accept a risk, doesn't mean you always should.
  10. Finding Your Investing Comfort Zone

    Choosing the right investments for you is the best way to feel comfortable with your portfolio.

comments powered by Disqus
Recommended
Loading, please wait...
Trading Center