What is a smart order router?

A smart order router (SOR) is an automated process used in online trading, which follows a set of rules that look for and assess trading liquidity. The goal of an SOR is to find the best way of executing a trade, taking advantage of opportunities across a range of trading venues through advanced algorithms.

SORs were first used as a key technology in the equities market, but they are now an integral part of most trading platforms across all asset classes. SORs became a necessity as electronic trading grew in popularity, and even became a regulatory requirement to ensure that all banks and brokers were giving clarity on how their products work.