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Business Quote by Michael Lewis

“The U.S. stock market was now a class system, rooted in speed, of haves and have-nots. The haves paid for nanoseconds; the have-nots had no idea that nanoseconds had value. The haves enjoyed a perfect view of the market; the have-nots never saw the market at all.” quote by Michael Lewis
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““The U.S. stock market was now a class system, rooted in speed, of haves and have-nots. The haves paid for nanoseconds; the have-nots had no idea that nanoseconds had value. The haves enjoyed a perfect view of the market; the have-nots never saw the market at all.””

Michael Lewis

About This Quote

Source Book: Flash Boys by Michael Lewis, 2014

High‑frequency trading creates a market split where those with ultra‑fast technology profit, leaving others uninformed and disadvantaged.

In simple terms: Speed gives some traders unfair advantage.

Key Takeaway

Advocate for fairer market access.

Themes

economic inequality technology market structure

Mood

critical analytical

Type

analytical commentary

When to use this quote

  • investment decisions
  • policy making
  • financial education
  • regulatory reform

Key Concepts

finance algorithmic trading information asymmetry

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can regulators balance innovation with fairness?
  • What role does transparency play in market equity?
A Different Perspective

The quote may oversimplify complex market dynamics and ignore benefits of liquidity.

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