transaction cost

1. A fee charged by a financial intermediary such as a bank, broker, or underwriter.

2. Economics: The cost associated with exchange of goods or services and incurred in overcoming market imperfections. Transaction costs cover a wide range: communication charges, legal fees, informational cost of finding the price, quality, and durability, etc., and may also include transportation costs. Transaction costs are a critical factor in deciding whether to make a product or buy it. Also called frictional cost. See also transfer cost.