Definition ∞ A secondary marketplace is a venue where assets are traded among investors after their initial issuance. This market provides liquidity for previously issued securities, digital assets, or other financial instruments, allowing owners to sell their holdings to other interested parties. It facilitates price discovery and enables investors to exit positions.
Context ∞ In the digital asset ecosystem, secondary marketplaces are platforms where cryptocurrencies, non-fungible tokens, and other tokenized assets are bought and sold after their primary distribution events, such as initial coin offerings or mints. The liquidity and price discovery mechanisms of these marketplaces are vital for the valuation and utility of digital assets. Regulatory oversight of secondary marketplaces is a key area of focus for authorities worldwide.