Stock Market: The Complete Guide
Imagine waking up to find your portfolio has grown 12% overnight, all while you were asleep—this isn't a fantasy, it's the reality of long-term stock ma...
Imagine waking up to find your portfolio has grown 12% overnight, all while you were asleep—this isn't a fantasy, it's the reality of long-term stock market investing. In 2026, 58% of individual investors plan to buy more stocks while only 4% plan to reduce exposure, signaling a profound shift in how Americans view market participation. Stock market is the network of exchanges where investors buy and sell shares of publicly traded companies through brokerage platforms. It serves as the primary mechanism for companies to raise capital and for investors to build wealth over time. The stock market isn't just a place to trade—it's a fundamental engine of modern economic growth, connecting capital with opportunity across global markets. Key fact: According to The Motley Fool's 2026 Stock Market Outlook, 57% of investors believe artificial intelligence will be the primary driver of market growth over the next five years. Stock market is the network of exchanges and over-the-counter venues where investors buy and sell shares in publicly traded companies through brokerage platforms.