The
stock market is where investors can either buy or sell stock shares and conduct
various other types of transactions in regards to stock. The stock market
itself is not an actual location or facility; it is simply the term given to
the actual activities and transactions involving stock shares. All of the
shares exchanged in stock markets are listed on a stock exchange, which also
includes, in some cases, privately-traded stock.
The world stock markets are estimated to be at
about $36.6 trillion as of 2008, though the actual total in terms of face value
is estimated to be at $791 trillion, which is actually eleven times that of the
world economy in total.
There
are various stock markets throughout the world. In the United States, the
largest stock market is the New York Stock Exchange, or NYSE. Other large stock
markets include the London Stock Exchange, Tokyo Stock Exchange, and the Paris
Bourse.
Individuals
that conduct transactions in stock markets are commonly known as stock brokers,
who typically act as third parties in the actual buying and/or selling process.
However, in recent years, many people will now use online trading sites and
brokerage firms instead of enlisting the services of a stock broker.
The
stock market conducts business on a daily basis, similar to regular company
schedules. For example, the stock market hours for the NYSE are from Monday
through Friday, starting at 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.