Official definition

This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in acting as principals (except investment bankers, securities dealers, and commodity contracts dealers) in buying or selling financial contracts generally on a spread basis. Principals are investors that buy or sell for their own account. Illustrative Examples: Investment clubs Tax liens dealing (i.e., acting as a principal in dealing tax liens to investors) Venture capital companies Mineral royalties or leases dealing (i.e., acting as a principal in dealing royalties or leases to investors) Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in--