Stock Market

The stock market is a system and marketplace where shares of publicly traded companies are bought and sold. It serves as a platform for investors to purchase ownership stakes in these companies through stocks, which represent fractional ownership. The stock market facilitates price discovery and liquidity, allowing investors to buy and sell shares based on their perceived value and company performance. It operates through various exchanges, such as the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and the Nasdaq, where trading occurs. The movements of stock prices are influenced by a myriad of factors including company earnings reports, economic indicators, and investor sentiment. The stock market is a critical component of the economy, often reflecting the overall performance and health of the economy. It also provides companies with access to capital by allowing them to raise funds for expansion and operations through the sale of shares to the public.