Market Surveillance

Definition ∞ Market surveillance involves monitoring trading activity to detect manipulation and ensure fair market operations. This practice is critical in both traditional and digital asset markets to identify anomalous trading patterns, insider trading, and other illicit behaviors. Regulatory bodies and exchanges employ sophisticated tools and algorithms to observe order books, transaction flows, and participant actions. The goal is to maintain market integrity and protect investors from fraudulent schemes.
Context ∞ The implementation and effectiveness of market surveillance in digital asset markets remain a prominent area of regulatory focus and technological advancement. Regulators frequently discuss the challenges posed by the decentralized nature of some crypto venues and the need for comprehensive data sharing. Ongoing efforts concentrate on developing robust frameworks to counter market abuses and foster greater investor confidence.