Stock Market: What is it? A stock market is a marketplace where securities , such as stocks (equities) , bonds , and derivatives , are bought and sold. It enables companies to raise capital by issuing shares to the public, and provides investors with a platform to trade these securities. The market operates on the principles of supply and demand , where investors can buy and sell shares of publicly listed companies. Origin of the Stock Market: The concept of the stock market originated in Europe and was later adapted in other countries like the United States and India. Origin of the Concept (16th-17th Century): The first concept of trading shares began in Amsterdam, Netherlands , during the Dutch East India Company in the early 1600s. This company issued the first publicly traded shares, allowing citizens to buy and sell portions of the company. The London Stock Exchange (LSE) was established in the late 1600s and became a major center for stock trading. Stock Market in India: Th...