The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is a government agency that oversees the stock market and protects investors from fraud.
The SEC was created in 1934 in the wake of the Great Depression, when many Americans lost their life savings in the stock market crash.
The SEC is responsible for enforcing federal securities laws designed to promote fairness and transparency in the markets.
The SEC also regulates the activities of broker-dealers, investment advisers, and other financial professionals. In addition, the SEC investigates potential cases of securities fraud and brings enforcement actions against individuals and firms that violate the law.
By fulfilling its mission, the SEC plays a vital role in safeguarding the integrity of the markets and protecting investors from harm.