Exploring the Legal Definition of Chalk Boy [Stock Exchange]

Definition & meaning

A chalk boy was traditionally an employee at a stock brokerage firm responsible for writing stock quotes on a large blackboard. This role involved updating the prices of approximately fifty leading stocks to inform clients and traders. With the advent of modern electronic quotation systems, the position of chalk boy has become obsolete, as technology now provides real-time data more efficiently.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: In the early 20th century, a chalk boy would update the stock prices on a blackboard in a bustling brokerage office, allowing traders to make informed decisions based on the latest market information.

Example 2: (hypothetical example) A brokerage firm in the 1980s employs a chalk boy to write stock quotes, but soon transitions to an electronic display system, eliminating the need for the chalk boy's role.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Differences
Broker A person or firm that buys and sells securities on behalf of clients. Chalk boys were specific to manual quote updating, while brokers handle transactions.
Market Maker A firm that provides liquidity in the market by being ready to buy or sell at any time. Market makers facilitate trades, whereas chalk boys only reported stock prices.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are researching the history of stock trading or the evolution of brokerage practices, consider looking into resources that detail the transition from manual to electronic trading systems. For legal documents related to stock trading or brokerage agreements, explore US Legal Forms for templates that can assist you in your needs. If you require more complex legal advice, consulting a legal professional is recommended.

Quick facts

  • Role: Employee at stock brokerage firms
  • Function: Updating stock prices on a blackboard
  • Obsolescence: Replaced by electronic systems
  • Historical Context: Significant in the evolution of stock trading

Key takeaways

FAQs

A chalk boy was an employee at a stock brokerage who manually updated stock prices on a blackboard.