New York Stock Exchange

New York Stock Exchange 1882

Stockexchange

NY stock exchange traders floor LC-U9-10548-6

President Ronald Reagan addressing the New York Stock Exchange

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New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), also known as the "Big Board", is a leading global financial market located in New York City, United States. It is one of the largest stock exchanges in the world by market capitalization of its listed companies. The NYSE provides a platform for buying and selling stocks, bonds, and other securities. It was founded on May 17, 1792, when 24 stockbrokers signed the Buttonwood Agreement on Wall Street in New York City. The NYSE operates as an auction market, where buyers and sellers meet to conduct transactions in a transparent and regulated environment.

History

The origins of the NYSE date back to 1792, with the signing of the Buttonwood Agreement. This agreement was signed under a buttonwood tree and marked the beginning of the organized stock market in the United States. The NYSE grew rapidly throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, becoming a central institution for the American economy. The Exchange moved to its current location at 11 Wall Street in 1903, where it remains a symbol of American capitalism.

Market Structure

The NYSE operates as an auction market, distinct from electronic trading systems, such as the NASDAQ, which is a dealer's market. In an auction market, buyers and sellers enter competitive bids simultaneously. The NYSE utilizes designated market makers (DMMs), previously known as specialists, to facilitate trading by managing the auction, maintaining fair and orderly markets for their assigned securities.

Trading Hours

The NYSE's standard trading hours are from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. The Exchange is closed on federal holidays and occasionally closes early for special occasions.

Listed Companies

As of [insert current year], the NYSE lists thousands of companies from around the world, including many of the largest and most well-known corporations. To be listed, companies must meet the exchange's stringent requirements, including minimum financial and liquidity thresholds.

Technology and Innovation

Over the years, the NYSE has embraced technological advancements to improve trading efficiency and market integrity. This includes the transition from paper-based to electronic trading systems. Despite these advancements, the NYSE maintains a physical trading floor, which is iconic and often featured in media coverage of the financial markets.

Regulation

The NYSE is regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and has its own set of rules and regulations that govern trading and listings. These regulations are designed to protect investors and maintain the integrity of the market.

Global Impact

The NYSE plays a crucial role in the global economy, influencing financial markets worldwide. It is a barometer of the economic health of the United States and, by extension, the global economy. Movements in the NYSE indices, such as the NYSE Composite and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (which includes several NYSE-listed companies), are closely watched by investors and policymakers around the world.

See Also

• Stock market
• Wall Street
• Financial market
• Market capitalization
• Securities and Exchange Commission