Ⅰ.
play the (money/stock) market
► FINANCE to trade shares, bonds, etc., especially in order to make money quickly, rather than to invest over a longer period: »
Spread betting companies offer an opportunity for private individuals to play the stock market.
Main Entry: ↑play
Ⅱ.
play the market
► FINANCE, STOCK MARKET to risk money buying and selling shares, etc.: »
He had an instinct for finance, subscribed to the Wall Street Journal, and played the market.
Main Entry: ↑market
Financial and business terms. 2012.