The stock market is a marketplace where shares of publicly traded companies are bought and sold. It serves as a platform for companies to raise capital by issuing shares, and for investors to buy ownership in businesses and potentially earn returns through price appreciation and dividends. Major stock exchanges include the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ in the U.S., and the London Stock Exchange (LSE). Stock prices are influenced by factors like company performance, economic indicators, and investor sentiment. Investors use various strategies, such as long-term investing, day trading, and technical analysis, to navigate the market.