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The retail execution quality landscape

Author

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  • Dyhrberg, Anne Haubo
  • Shkilko, Andriy
  • Werner, Ingrid M.

Abstract

We demonstrate that off-exchange (wholesaler) executions provide significant cost savings to retail investors. Wholesaler concentration has raised regulatory concerns; however, we show that the largest wholesalers offer the lowest costs due to economies of scale. The entry of a new large wholesaler reduces incumbent scale economies, resulting in higher execution costs. Most retail brokers route to multiple wholesalers and actively monitor their performance, rewarding those offering lower execution costs with more volume. While retail investors benefit from the current landscape across all stocks, those trading small stocks benefit the most.

Suggested Citation

  • Dyhrberg, Anne Haubo & Shkilko, Andriy & Werner, Ingrid M., 2025. "The retail execution quality landscape," Journal of Financial Economics, Elsevier, vol. 168(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jfinec:v:168:y:2025:i:c:s0304405x25000595
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jfineco.2025.104051
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    JEL classification:

    • G20 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - General
    • G24 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Investment Banking; Venture Capital; Brokerage
    • G28 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Government Policy and Regulation

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