RTB — Real Time Bidding

Definition: The auction mechanic underneath programmatic ads — every impression is sold in milliseconds to the highest qualified bidder.

Example

Shifting from fixed buys to RTB cut our blended CPM by 28% without losing reach.

When you'll hear it

RTB shows up most often in board meetings, quarterly business reviews, and strategy off-sites. When someone uses it, they're usually referring to real time bidding — and they expect the room to already know what that means.

FAQs

What does RTB stand for?

RTB stands for Real Time Bidding.

What does RTB mean in business and finance?

The auction mechanic underneath programmatic ads — every impression is sold in milliseconds to the highest qualified bidder.

Where will I hear RTB used at work?

RTB comes up most often in board meetings, quarterly business reviews, and strategy off-sites. It's used as shorthand for real time bidding, so people assume you already know the term.