What did merchants role in the Aztec society?

In Aztec society, merchants played a crucial role as intermediaries in trade, facilitating the exchange of goods both within the empire and with neighboring regions. They were responsible for transporting valuable items such as cacao, textiles, and precious metals, and their activities contributed to the economy's vitality. Merchants often held a respected status, sometimes even serving as spies, gathering intelligence about other cultures and potential threats. Their wealth and connections allowed them to influence political and social dynamics within the Aztec civilization.