Established in 1934, the SEC is a federal government agency in the United States responsible for regulating and overseeing the securities industry. Its primary functions include protecting investors, maintaining fair, transparent, efficient securities markets, and facilitating capital formation.

To achieve these goals, the SEC enforces securities laws, registers and monitors brokerage firms, investment advisers, and other market participants, and ensures public companies disclose accurate financial information to investors. By promoting transparency and integrity in the securities markets, the SEC helps to build trust among investors and contributes to a stable financial environment.