US Stock Exchange Wiki: A Comprehensive Guide

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Introduction

The US stock exchange is a cornerstone of the global financial system, offering investors a wide range of opportunities to buy and sell shares of publicly-traded companies. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, understanding the different stock exchanges and how they operate is crucial. This article serves as a comprehensive guide to the US stock exchanges, providing you with all the essential information you need to know.

The Major US Stock Exchanges

The United States hosts several major stock exchanges, each with its unique features and listing requirements. The most prominent among them are:

• New York Stock Exchange (NYSE): Established in 1792, the NYSE is the oldest and most well-known stock exchange in the United States. It is home to many of the world's largest and most influential companies, including Apple, Microsoft, and IBM.
• NASDAQ: Founded in 1971, NASDAQ is the largest electronic stock exchange in the world by market capitalization. It lists a wide variety of companies, from technology giants like Google and Amazon to biotech firms and startups.
• NYSE American (formerly American Stock Exchange): The NYSE American is a smaller stock exchange that focuses on smaller and mid-sized companies. It provides an alternative platform for companies that may not meet the listing requirements of the NYSE or NASDAQ.

Listing Requirements and Process

To get listed on a US stock exchange, a company must meet certain criteria, including:

• Profitability: Most exchanges require companies to have a minimum level of profitability, usually in the form of net income or earnings per share.
• Market Capitalization: Companies must also meet certain market capitalization requirements, which can vary depending on the exchange.
• Shareholder Structure: The company must have a sufficient number of shareholders to ensure liquidity and marketability of its shares.

The process of getting listed on a stock exchange involves several steps, including:

• Initial Public Offering (IPO): The company must complete an IPO, which involves hiring underwriters and pricing the shares.
• Listing Application: Once the IPO is complete, the company must submit a listing application to the exchange, providing detailed information about its business, financials, and governance.
• Listing Approval: The exchange will review the application and determine whether to approve the listing.

Trading Hours and Procedures

The trading hours for the major US stock exchanges are generally from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time. However, pre-market trading and after-hours trading sessions are also available for investors who wish to trade outside of regular hours.

The trading procedures on the US stock exchanges are standardized and regulated. Investors can place buy and sell orders through their brokers, who will execute the trades on their behalf. The exchanges use electronic trading platforms to match buy and sell orders and ensure fair and efficient pricing.

Case Studies

Several notable companies have listed on the US stock exchanges, including:

• Apple: Apple went public on the NASDAQ in 1980, and its shares have since become one of the most valuable and widely-held stocks in the world.
• Facebook: Facebook's IPO on the NASDAQ in 2012 was the largest in history at the time, raising $16 billion.
• Tesla: Tesla listed on the NASDAQ in 2010 and has since become a leader in the electric vehicle industry.

Conclusion

The US stock exchanges offer a vibrant and dynamic market for investors to buy and sell shares of publicly-traded companies. Understanding the different exchanges, listing requirements, and trading procedures is crucial for anyone looking to invest in the US stock market. This comprehensive guide provides you with the essential information you need to make informed investment decisions.

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