A speculator is an individual or entity that engages in the buying and selling of assets, such as stocks, real estate, or commodities, with the hope of making a profit from future price changes. Unlike traditional investors, who may focus on long-term growth, speculators often seek short-term gains and may take on higher risks. Speculators play a significant role in financial markets by providing liquidity and helping to determine asset prices. Their activities can influence market trends, as they react to news, economic indicators, and other factors that may affect the value of assets like stocks or real estate.