Stock Market

The stock market refers to the collection of markets and exchanges where activities related to buying, selling, and issuing shares of publicly-held companies occur. It is a platform that facilitates the trading of stocks (also known as equities), which represent ownership interests in businesses. Investors can buy and sell shares, enabling them to potentially profit from the company’s performance, as well as share in its risks. The stock market plays a crucial role in the economy by providing companies with access to capital, enabling them to grow and operate, while offering investors opportunities for investment and wealth accumulation. Key components of the stock market include stock exchanges (such as the New York Stock Exchange and NASDAQ), market indices (like the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average), and various financial instruments related to stocks, such as options and futures. The performance of the stock market is often seen as an indicator of the overall economic health of a country.