In microeconomics, we discuss demand curves and how they are based on individuals with different levels of willingness to pay. So as the price increases due to a supply curve shift right (less supply), the quantity demanded decreases.
In markets, this is a little more transparent if you look at the bid / ask lists. These lists show the prices and volumes people are willing to buy and sell for. The other unique thing about the capital markets, is that there is actually a set number of securities (assuming that banks do not issue or buyback securities in the short term, supply is price inelastic based on total float) and that investors can be both buyers and sellers (short term suppliers and consumers) of securities. Actually, a better way to put it would be they can either hold or release securities (demand based relationship).
If their intrinsic value (IV) of a stock is above the current market price, they will buy the stock. If their IV is less than market, then they will sell. And in an exchange market, that is exactly the case (orders, unless removed before execution, are commitments to buy or sell at the stated price).
Shown here is an illustration of a “complete” market. This assumes that everyone’s IVs are included, that there are no hidden orders and that people’s opinions won’t change with the market price (a snapshot by nature). The current ask price is $8.00 and the bid is $7.75. As people’s sentiments change (or new investors are introduced into the market), orders to buy are satisfied at $8.00 and orders to sell are satisfied at $7.75. If all the potential sellers at $8.00 are taken up, then people can only buy the stock at $8.25 and the stock price goes up. Note that the differential between bid and ask is a proxy for market liquidity, as the lower the transaction fee to enter and exit a position the lower the cost of trading the security.
Also note that the steepness of the curve is a good proxy for potential volatility as well. Because if the slope of the curve is steep over a variety of prices, it means that the market doesn’t necessarily agree on the price. And if a few people cross the line from one side to another, the price can change quickly and dramatically (shown below):
2 comments:
It's a nice idea, but it isn't really a true indication of demand and supply given the tactics that traders use to get the best price.
Hidden orders (dark pools) make up a huge part of the market nowadays.
Although illegal traders do "paint the tape" so their bids/offers are not accurate indications of real demand.
"Layering" is a common practice where traders put up fictitious bid/asks just to pull them later so they can get a better price when they enter or exit their actual trades.
Traders also "shake the tree," driving the price up or down to bring out other orders so they can get a better price on their subsequent trades.
Great points to be aware of.
Obviously , there are some subtleties in the market when you have some skin in the game that you need to be aware of. The comment is much appreciated.
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