The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is a facility where stocks and securities are bought and sold. It is the largest and oldest such exchange in the United States, and one of the major players in the world market as well. Events at the New York Stock Exchange shape the American economy, and also have an impact on American morale, as was clearly demonstrated by the “Black Thursday” crash of 1929 which played a major role in the Great Depression.

In 1792, the New York Stock Exchange was founded with the signing of the Buttonwood Agreement. After moving through several locations, the New York Stock Exchange settled into its home on 11 Wall Street in New York City. 1,500 employees work for the New York Stock Exchange, which is run as a non-profit corporation, managed by a board of directors. The New York Stock Exchange lists securities available for sale or trade, oversees stock trades and sales, and sets policies within the stocks and securities industry.

Approximately 3,000 companies are listed with the New York Stock Exchange. In order to become a publicly listed company with the Exchange, a company must submit annual reports, offer stock for trade, and list an income above two and a half million before taxes. Once a company is listed, stock can be bought and sold at the New York Stock Exchange, either directly from company representatives who walk the floor, or from other traders.

Many stock exchange companies around the world have switched to an electronic format for buying and selling. While the New York Stock Exchange does offer this option, through representatives on the floor who handle electronic requests, the majority of trading is physically carried out on the floor by 1,366 members who have purchased seats in the exchange which allow them to trade directly. The ability to trade on the floor is considered to be a privilege, and seats on the New York Stock Exchange often command a high price.

Along with other financial institutions, the New York Stock Exchange plays a major role in shaping American economy and financial policy. The Exchange aims to provide a safe and secure environment in which to trade, and often encourages additional regulation of the industry to ensure that investors continue to do business. Trading on the Exchange is not for the weak of heart, however. The trading floors are crowded and chaotic, filled with a wide range of sensory input including shouting traders, ticker screens detailing breaking news and stock prices, and a crush of humanity struggling to buy and sell.