Legal Definitions - Securities and Exchange Commission

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is a federal agency that regulates the issuance and trading of securities to protect investors from fraudulent or unfair practices. It was established by the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and is composed of five members.

For example, if a company wants to issue stocks or bonds to raise money, they must register with the SEC and provide detailed information about their financial situation and business operations. The SEC reviews this information to ensure that it is accurate and complete, and that investors have access to all the information they need to make informed decisions about whether to invest in the company.

The SEC also investigates and prosecutes individuals and companies that engage in insider trading, accounting fraud, or other illegal activities that harm investors. By enforcing these laws, the SEC helps to maintain the integrity of the financial markets and protect investors from harm.