A retail investor is an individual who buys and sells securities, such as stocks and bonds, for their personal account rather than for an institution. These investors typically have smaller amounts of capital to invest compared to institutional investors, like mutual funds or pension funds. Retail investors often use online trading platforms to manage their investments and make decisions based on personal research or advice from financial advisors. Retail investors play a significant role in the financial markets, contributing to overall market liquidity. They can invest in various assets, including stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. While they may not have the same resources as institutional investors, retail investors can still impact market trends and prices through their buying and selling activities.