GRAY MARKET

Unofficial but not illegal market where securities are traded. In general, this market trading appears when a suspended stock trades off-market, or individuals start trading shares that have not been issued yet. This market allows the issuer and underwriters to measure demand for a new offering because it is a "when issued" market such as securities to be offered soon. It can also pertain to the import and sale of goods by unauthorized dealers that is also unofficial but not illegal.