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Trading Tech Talk


Trading Tech Talk is the program where we break down all the amazing technology that takes your trades from the click of a mouse to the clearinghouse and back again. Each episode we’ll break down the latest developments in the world of trading tech, bring you exclusive conversations with industry thought leaders, and answer your pressing technology questions. 

Apr 17, 2014

Trading Tech Talk: The Great Flash Boys Debate

Hot Topics in Tech: It’s all HFT, all the time: The recent 60 Minutes interview with Michael Lewis along with his new book Flash Boys has reignited the conversation. My biggest problem with this book is that the material is so dated. It sounds like an OIC panel from 2006. Is HFT hurting the little guy? Is HFT impacting liquidity providers? Has the definition of front running changed? Charles Schwab calls HFT a "growing cancer."

The Inbox: Listener Questions

  • Question from Charles Vitner - How is the process described in the new book Flash Boys by Michael Lewis not front running? If you do it five minutes or five milliseconds before the order is that not the same thing?
  • Question from Anthony Neuberger - Can you please explain colocation and the benefits it offers? Why would a firm pay for this privilege?