Due to the flash-crash of the U.S. stock markets on May 6, 2010 high-frequency trading (HFT) has recently drawn massive public attention. This paper defines and distinguishes algorithmic trading (AT) and HFT. The intent of the overview is to inform the public, policy makers and regulators and to provide a basis for the discussions on AT and HFT and the potential need of their regulation.
White Paper No. 3, 2011