Course Content
Introduction
The stock market is a marketplace where shares of publicly listed companies are bought and sold. It plays a central role in the modern economy, acting as a bridge between businesses that need capital and investors who have money to invest. The origins of the stock market trace back to the early 1600s, when the Dutch East India Company issued the first shares on the Amsterdam Stock Exchange. This allowed the company to raise money from the public to fund its trade ventures, in return for a share of the profits. Over time, this concept evolved, and today, stock markets exist all over the world, with major exchanges like the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), NASDAQ, and London Stock Exchange facilitating trillions of dollars in trade. At its core, the stock market enables businesses to grow. By offering shares to the public through a process called an Initial Public Offering (IPO), companies can raise large amounts of money to expand operations, invest in research, or develop new products—without having to rely solely on banks or private lenders. In return, investors get the opportunity to share in the company’s success through rising share prices and dividends. Investing in the stock market can be a powerful way to build wealth over time. Wise investments in strong companies can generate solid returns, especially when held for the long term. Many individuals have grown their savings substantially by investing in companies that have thrived. However, it’s important to remember that the stock market carries risks. Prices can go up, but they can also go down—sometimes sharply. Economic downturns, company mismanagement, or shifts in the global market can all lead to losses. For beginners, it's essential to approach investing with caution, avoid chasing “get rich quick” schemes, and take the time to understand what you're investing in. In short, the stock market is a powerful tool for economic growth and personal financial development—but like all tools, it must be used wisely.
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Beginners guide to investing in the Stock Market

Major Stock Markets Around the World

 

There are many stock exchanges globally, each serving its own country or region, and offering companies a platform to raise money and expand. Here are some of the major ones:

 

United States – New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) & NASDAQ

 

  • The NYSE is the largest stock exchange in the world by market capitalization.

  • It is home to over 2,300 listed companies.

  • Some of the biggest names include Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, Berkshire Hathaway, JPMorgan Chase, and Coca-Cola.

  • Companies listed here are typically large and well-established, and the NYSE is known for its strict listing standards.

  • The NASDAQ, also in the U.S., is another major exchange known for tech-heavy listings like Google (Alphabet), Meta (Facebook), Tesla, and Netflix.

 

Australia – Australian Securities Exchange (ASX)

 

  • Based in Sydney, the ASX lists over 2,000 companies, ranging from mining giants like BHP to banks like Commonwealth Bank of Australia.

  • The ASX plays a crucial role in funding Australia’s resource-rich economy.

 

United Kingdom – London Stock Exchange (LSE)

 

  • One of the oldest stock exchanges in the world.

  • Hosts both UK-based companies and international firms.

  • Notable listings include HSBC, BP, Unilever, and Diageo.

  • The LSE is known for its global outlook and strong financial services sector.

 

Japan – Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE)

 

  • The largest stock exchange in Asia and the third-largest globally.

  • Home to companies like Toyota, Sony, Honda, and SoftBank.

  • It reflects Japan’s strong industrial and technological economy.

 

China – Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE) & Shenzhen Stock Exchange (SZSE)

 

  • The SSE mainly lists large state-owned enterprises, while the SZSE includes smaller and private firms.

  • Major names include PetroChina, ICBC (Industrial and Commercial Bank of China), and Alibaba (also listed in the U.S.).

  • China’s stock markets are heavily influenced by government policy and remain less open to foreign investors compared to Western markets.

 

Europe – Euronext

 

  • A pan-European exchange operating in countries like France, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Italy.

  • Major listings include LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy), Airbus, and TotalEnergies.

  • Euronext promotes cross-border investing across Europe.