Definition ∞ Spot markets are financial markets where assets are traded for immediate delivery and payment. In these markets, transactions occur at the current market price, known as the spot price, with settlement typically happening within two business days or instantly for digital assets. Participants trade directly with one another or through intermediaries, aiming to acquire or divest assets for present use or short-term speculation. Unlike derivatives markets, spot markets do not involve future obligations but rather real-time exchange of the underlying asset.
Context ∞ Spot markets form the foundational pricing mechanism for cryptocurrencies and other digital assets, with their liquidity and integrity being paramount. The fragmented nature of crypto spot markets across numerous exchanges presents challenges for uniform price discovery and regulatory oversight. Discussions often center on market surveillance to detect manipulation and ensure fair trading practices, particularly as these markets influence derivatives pricing. News frequently covers trading volumes, price volatility, and regulatory actions concerning spot crypto exchanges.
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