A block trade refers to a substantial amount of shares of a single stock being sold or purchased as a whole. This term is commonly used in the world of finance, particularly in the stock market. It is an efficient way for institutional investors to quickly buy or sell large quantities of stocks without causing significant price changes. Block trades can be beneficial for both buyers and sellers, as they allow for smoother and faster transactions. Such trades are closely monitored by market regulators to ensure fairness and transparency.