DEFINITION of 'Cambist'

An individual or broker considered to be an expert in foreign exchange rates.

Cambist may also refer to a book providing information, such as exchange rates on world currencies and other mediums of exchange.


The term comes from the Latin word "cambiere" which means "to exchange." With the advent of electronics and fast-paced trading, manuals and books detailing exchange rates fell out of favor. Today, the term is used as a throwback to describe professional currency traders.