#OrderTypes101 When you place an order to buy or sell securities, in some cases the price quoted to you at the time of the sale may not exactly match the price you pay for your securities. This can happen because quotes may be delayed, trades take time to execute and, in highly volatile markets, millions of shares can trade in microseconds causing price swings.

You do, however, have the power to exercise some control over these factors by choosing the type of order you place. Understand the benefits and risks of various types of orders to help avoid unintended losses and better ensure that your trades are executed in a timely manner and at a price with which you are comfortable.