#SECGuidance The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is a U.S. government agency responsible for enforcing federal securities laws and regulating the securities industry, including stock and options exchanges. Established in 1934 after the stock market crash of 1929, the SEC's primary mission is to protect investors, maintain fair, orderly, and efficient markets, and facilitate capital formation. It oversees key market participants such as brokers, investment advisers, and public companies to ensure transparency and compliance with regulations. The SEC also requires companies to disclose important financial information