Indicative Quote
A non-binding price indication intended to communicate approximate market levels rather than a firm executable commitment.
A non-binding price indication intended to communicate approximate market levels rather than a firm executable commitment.
How Indicative Quote works
Quotes are not merely displayed prices; they communicate willingness to trade, available size and sometimes the inventory preference of the liquidity provider. Their reliability depends on whether they are firm, indicative, visible or fragmented across venues. Indicative Quote is best understood as part of the chain connecting trading interest to an observable transaction price. Its effect depends on the market's participant mix, transparency, liquidity and the rules governing interaction.
Why it matters in markets
Bond pricing often relies on multiple dealer indications and recent transactions rather than a single continuous exchange price, making quote interpretation especially important. Understanding Indicative Quote helps distinguish a fundamental repricing from a move caused primarily by execution mechanics, inventory pressure or temporary scarcity of liquidity. That distinction is important when comparing yields, spreads or prices across instruments and venues.
How to interpret it
The concept should be read in context rather than as a standalone signal. Compare Indicative Quote with prevailing volatility, trade size, spreads, depth and the execution protocol in use. A change can reflect information, inventory management, market-design rules or simply the timing of a large order.
Limits and context
Microstructure measures are highly sensitive to market design and data quality. Public feeds may omit hidden interest, bilateral dealer negotiations or delayed reports, while definitions can vary across venues and jurisdictions. BondStats therefore treats Indicative Quote as a structural concept rather than a universal trading rule, and users should defer to the relevant venue, regulator or instrument documentation for binding definitions.
Independently written BondStats reference content. Venue rules, regulatory definitions and official instrument documentation remain authoritative where terminology differs across markets.