Which of the following factors contributed to the political implications of high-frequency trading?

The choice highlighting the exacerbation of trading-related mistakes is significant when considering the political implications of high-frequency trading (HFT). High-frequency trading utilizes advanced algorithms and high-speed data connections to execute trades at a pace that human traders cannot match. This can lead to situations where rapid trading might cause unintended consequences, such as market volatility or flash crashes.

The political implications arise because such trading practices can result in public outcry and call for regulation, especially when they are perceived to undermine market fairness or stability. For instance, during events like the Flash Crash of 2010, the rapid execution of trades led to extreme market fluctuations that raised questions about the integrity of financial markets. Regulators and lawmakers may feel pressured to implement stricter rules on trading practices, directly linking the outcomes of HFT to political actions aimed at protecting the market and its participants.

The other options don't contribute to the political implications as directly. While they touch on legitimate concerns within the market, they do not highlight the urgent regulatory and public trust issues that arise from operational mistakes in trading.