TechnologyJuly 17, 2026
quant
/kwɒnt/
Definition
An investment firm or professional that utilizes complex mathematical models, algorithms, and automated data analysis to execute trades rather than relying on human judgment.
Etymology
The word is a clipped form of 'quantitative,' originating from the Latin 'quantitas' meaning 'how much.' It entered financial jargon in the late 20th century to describe professionals who applied mathematical and statistical techniques to market analysis.
In the news
In this article, the author highlights how automated selling by quant funds contributed to a 'momentum crash' in tech stocks, showing how these mathematical strategies can accelerate market volatility.
Global tech stocks fall as AI trade goes into reverse
Read the full article ↗Financial Times