Definition
Proprietary trading is the trading activities conducted by a firm using its own capital. Founders reach for it when a vague conversation needs a shared, specific meaning. Name it clearly, then let the next decision — a hire, a price, a test, or a pass — follow from that meaning.
In the room
How the word shows up in a real conversation.
You know Proprietary trading is doing work when it changes a weekly choice — price, hire, channel, or kill. The working definition: Trading activities conducted by a firm using its own capital.
Common mistake
Using Proprietary trading as a label instead of a fact. If you cannot point to the evidence — a number, a customer, or a written assumption — you are using the word as jargon.
See also
Proprietary algorithm
Exclusive mathematical formula or process owned by a company.
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Proprietary data
Exclusive information and datasets owned by a company.
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Proprietary information
Confidential business information that belongs exclusively to a company.
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Proprietary knowledge
Exclusive expertise and know-how owned by a company.
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