Stock / Equity Markets

Stock markets are places where people can buy and sell shares of companies. Companies use stock markets to raise money by selling shares, and investors can buy shares to own a piece of the company. Stock markets can be traded on big exchanges like the NYSE or Nasdaq, or over the counter. Most trading happens on regulated exchanges and they are important for the economy because they show how healthy the economy is and provide money for investors, including those with retirement accounts. People who participate in the stock market include regular and big investors, traders, and market makers who help keep the market active. Brokers help connect buyers and sellers but don't actually own the stocks themselves.