Artificial Price
An artificial price, in the context of futures markets, refers to a price level that has been influenced or distorted due to market manipulation or other external factors, causing it to deviate from the price that would have been determined solely by the forces of supply and demand. This term is commonly used in financial markets to describe instances where the natural equilibrium of prices has been disrupted, leading to potentially unfair or non-market-driven pricing.[1][2][3][4]
Causes of Artificial Prices[edit]
Market Manipulation: One of the primary reasons for artificial prices is market manipulation. Traders or entities with substantial market power may engage in activities such as spoofing, layering, painting the tape or cornering the market to create artificial price movements that benefit their positions. These actions can lead to distorted price levels that do not accurately reflect the underlying fundamentals of the asset.[5]
News and Rumors: Artificial prices can also be driven by the dissemination of false or misleading information, rumors, or news events that trigger panic buying or selling. In such cases, prices may deviate significantly from their fair value until accurate information prevails.
Liquidity Shocks: Sudden and extreme changes in market liquidity, often caused by external events such as regulatory changes, geopolitical crises, or unexpected economic developments, can result in artificial price swings as market participants scramble to adjust their positions.
Consequences of Artificial Prices[edit]
Inefficiencies: Artificial prices disrupt the efficient allocation of resources and capital in financial markets, as they do not reflect the true supply and demand dynamics.
Losses: Traders and investors who unknowingly buy or sell assets at artificial prices may suffer significant financial losses once prices return to their fundamental levels.
Market Integrity: Artificial prices undermine market integrity and investor confidence, potentially leading to regulatory scrutiny and enforcement actions against those responsible for manipulation.
Volatility: Artificial prices can contribute to heightened market volatility, making it difficult for market participants to make informed decisions and manage risk effectively.
Regulatory Response[edit]
To address the issue of artificial prices, financial regulators and exchanges have implemented measures to detect and prevent market manipulation. These measures include enhanced surveillance, increased transparency requirements, and strict enforcement of rules and regulations. Regulatory bodies like the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) play a crucial role in maintaining market integrity and addressing instances of artificial pricing.
References[edit]
- ↑ Glossary. U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission.
- ↑ Judge Casts Doubt on CFTC’s Manipulation Case Against Trader Wilson. The Wall Street Journal.
- ↑ Fine levied in Kraft, Mondelez wheat market manipulation case. FoodBusinessNews.
- ↑ ASIC sues Commonwealth Bank over 'unconscionable' rate rigging. 9News.
- ↑ Kraft, Mondelez Global incur penalty in wheat manipulation case. WorldGrain.com.