Definition
How many stocks are taking part in a market move, not just how much the index moved.
The story
On Nov 3, 2026, the Nasdaq rose 0.8% even though, at one point in the afternoon, most S&P 500 stocks were down, per the Associated Press (AP): a handful of big chipmakers did the lifting. That's narrow breadth. A rally where most stocks rise together has broad breadth.
Why markets watch it
Coverage points to breadth to show whether a move is widely shared or carried by a few giants.
Connects to
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We explain why it moves markets. What you do with it is your call. Commentary and education only. Not financial advice. All terms