SEC

The SEC, or Securities and Exchange Commission, is an independent federal regulatory agency in the United States. It is responsible for enforcing federal securities laws, regulating the securities industry, and overseeing securities exchanges, brokers, and dealers. The SEC's primary mission is to protect investors, maintain fair and efficient markets, and facilitate capital formation. It achieves these goals by requiring public companies to disclose important financial information, ensuring transparency and preventing fraud in the securities markets. The SEC also oversees the activities of self-regulatory organizations, such as the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), and provides educational resources to help investors make informed decisions.