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Securities Exchange Commission

Definition

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is an independent agency of the United States federal government responsible for regulating the securities markets. Its primary mission is to protect investors, maintain fair, orderly, and efficient markets, and facilitate capital formation. The SEC oversees various market participants, including stock exchanges, broker-dealers, investment advisors, and public companies. It enforces federal securities laws through investigations and litigation. The agency’s pronouncements and actions significantly influence market behavior and regulatory landscapes.