Who can see the iceberg's peak? How icebergs are used by information and liquidity traders

Abstract

Iceberg orders are partially disclosed limit orders that only reveal a small portion of their hidden volume at any time. Once traded, the iceberg order automatically replenishes until all its hidden volume executes. Consistent with theory, icebergs appeal to both information and liquidity traders. Information traders place orders at aggressive prices in the limit order book, which transact immediately as marketable orders. Liquidity traders use non‐aggressive orders, which sit on the book as limit orders. Iceberg traders adjust the aggressiveness of their orders as market conditions change. We find the market discovers iceberg orders through repeated replenishments.