Electronic communication network (ECN) - Financial definition
Concise definition of the term electronic communication network
In finance, an electronic communication network (ECN) is a type of electronic messaging system or network that connects buyers and sellers of financial products and facilitates the trading of stocks, currencies and other financial instrument directly between them.
Comprehensive definition of the term electronic communication network
ECNs are a type of alternative trading system but unlike dark pools, which are another type of ATS, ECNs display orders publicly whereas dark pools keep them private. This is why ECNs are also known as light pool markets.