Definition ∞ The Stock Market is a collection of exchanges and other venues where the buying, selling, and issuance of shares of publicly held companies take place. It serves as a primary mechanism for capital formation, allowing companies to raise funds by selling equity to investors. The market’s performance is often viewed as a barometer of economic health, reflecting investor confidence and corporate profitability. Prices within the stock market are determined by supply and demand dynamics, influenced by a multitude of economic and company-specific factors.
Context ∞ Current analyses of the Stock Market often examine its correlation with, and divergence from, the performance of digital asset markets, particularly Bitcoin. Discussions frequently address the increasing interconnectedness between traditional finance and the crypto space, as institutional investors allocate capital across both asset classes. Regulatory developments impacting public companies and their engagement with digital assets are also a significant area of focus.