Broker

A broker is a person or entity that arranges transactions between a buyer and a seller.

A broker who also acts as a seller or as a buyer becomes a principal party to the deal.

Brokers are expected to have the tools and resources to reach the largest possible base of buyers and sellers.

Examples of brokerage firm regulatory agencies include the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), which regulate stockbrokers in the United States.

The word "broker" derives from Old French broceur "small trader", of uncertain origin, but possibly from Old French brocheor meaning "wine retailer", which comes from the verb brochier, or "to broach (a keg)".