ECNs bypass the existing intermediaries : the matching order
system
ECNs have developed as an alternative network to traditional exchange like
Nasdaq and NYSE. By matching electronically buyers and sellers orders, they
have eliminated the need for human broker dealer.
Interestingly, there are many consequences to this working process. By
providing electronic access and acting as a middleman, they have been able to
o¤er after hours trading capacities. By bypassing brokers dealers, they have
been able to bear low transaction cost. Because they match orders passively,
they do not participate to the price discovery scheme. Because their major
target is matching orders, they have to develop a client structure where buyers
can meet sellers. They have to avoid as much as possible a disproportionate
client portfolio with only one side (either buyer or seller).