WHAT IS SHARE OR STOCK MARKET ?
Prabhakar kumar | 30 April. 2024
Share market or stock market is assumed to be same as goods market in normal term but it is not same in technical term . In normal market we sell and purchase goods at a same place at same time . Same way stock market is a platform where we use to purchase or sell stocks or share of companies at a same time and same platform. It provides a market place for investors to trade finacial instruments like stocks , bonds and derivatives. The stock market plays a crucial role in the global economy , allowing companies to raise capital by issuing stocks and giving investors the opportunity to buy and sell these securities .
Stock prices are influenced by various factors , including company performance , economic conditions , and investor sentiment.
In India , there are two types of stock markets . These are - [1] Bombay Stock Exchange [BSE ] : BSE is one of the oldest stock exchanges in Asia , located in Mumbai .
[2] National stock Exchange [ NSE] :- NSE is established in 1992 at New Delhi . and it is the largest stock exchange in India in terms of trading volume .
These exchanges facilitate the trading of various financial instruments , including equities , derivatives , debt instruments , and other financial products . The Indian stock market plays a crucial role in the country's economy by providing companies with a platform to raise capital and investors with opportunities for wealth creation. Additionally , regulatory bodies like the securities and Exchange Board of India [SEBI] oversee and regulate the functioning of the stock market to ensure fair and transparent trading practices .
In the stock markets , there are several terms which is commonly and regularly used by investors and share traders . To understand share market more clearly and transparently , we should understand these termology . These are some common terms which are commonly used in stock market -
[1] Stocks .
[2] Bull Market .
[3] Bear Market . [4] Index . [5] Dividend .
[6] Volume . [7] Volatility . [8] Liquidity . [9] Market Capitalization . [10] Blue Chip Stocks . [11] P/E Ratio [ Price to Earnings Ratio ] . [12] EPS [ Earnings Per Share ] .[13] Short Selling . [14] Margin Trading . [15] Market order . [16] Limit order . [17] Day trading . [18] Blue Sky Laws .
[1] Stocks :- Stocks are the units of ownership in a company .It is also known as shares or equities , represent ownership in a company . When you buy stocks , you are essentially buying a small piece of ownership in that company . Share or stock holders typically have voting rights in company decisions and may receive dividends if the company distributes profits. The value of stocks can fluctuate based on various factors such as company performance , market conditions and investor sentiment . Investing in stocks can provide potential for capital appreciation over time , but it also carries risks , including the possibility of losing money if the stock's value declines .
[2] Bull Market :- A bull market is a situation of financial market condtion where prices are rising or expected to rise . The term is usually used to describe the stock market , but can also apply to other traded assets , such as bonds , real estate , currencies , and commodities .
Bull market typically last for months or even years, and are characterised by a large postion of security prices rising . In other words , bull market is a period when stock prices are rising and market sentiment is optimistic. Normally , bull market is confirmed , when major index , like the S&P 500 , climbs 20% above its most recent low .
During bull market period , investors are generally enthuastic about a strong economy and solid job growth . The opposite of a bull market is a bear market , which occurs when securities fall for a sustained period of time .
[3] Bear Market :- This is market situation in which stock prices start falling or come down and where securities or stocks experience prolonged price declines . The term bear market is often associated with negative economic sentiments , such as a decline in business profits , more unemployment and down consumer confidence .
Bear market usually occurs when the overall market sentiment is pessimistic and there is a continuous decline in asset prices , typically by 20% or more from recent high . Here is some conditions or nature of bear market :-
- Declining Prices :- Prices of shares , bonds , or other assets consistently trend downwards over an extended period , often several months or even years.
- Investor Sentiment :- Negative sentiment prevail among investors , who become cautious or fearful about the future prospects of the market or specific sectors .
- Economic Factors :- Bear market often coincide with economic downturns , such as recessions or periods of slowing economic growth. Weak economic indicators , such as high unemployment , declining consumer spending or shrinking corporate profits , can contribute to the bearish sentiment .
- Volatility :- Volalility increases in the market is the primery sign of bear market , because investors become panic due to news and uncertainties . Sharp price swings and increased trading activity are common features .
- Increased selling Pressure :- Investors may rush to sell their holdings or shares to reduce losses or protect their capital , leading to further download oressure on prices .
- Flight to Safety :- During bear market situation , investors may seek refuge in safe haven assets such as govt. bonds , goldor cash leading to increased demand for these assets .
- Longer Duration :- Bear markets last more than the bull market i.e. the effect of bear market is more intense and widespread than the bull market. And recoveries from bear markets can also be slow and gradual .
Understanding the nature of a bear market is crucial for investors to navgate through challenging times and make informed decisions about their portfolios .