The share market, also known as the stock market, is a platform where shares of publicly traded companies are bought and sold. Investors participate in the share market to earn returns on their investments by buying and selling stocks, making it an essential component of the financial world.
The share market offers two main types of shares: equity shares and preference shares. Equity shares give investors ownership in the company, along with voting rights. Preference shares provide a fixed dividend but generally do not offer voting rights. Both types of shares have their benefits and risks.
In the primary market, companies issue new shares to the public for the first time through Initial Public Offerings (IPOs). This process allows companies to raise capital for expansion, and investors get a chance to own shares in a growing business from the start.
The secondary market is where existing shares are bought and sold among investors. Unlike the primary market, the company does not receive money from these trades. Instead, investors trade shares with each other, with prices fluctuating based on market demand and supply.
The share market comprises various participants, including individual investors, institutional investors, mutual funds, and foreign investors. These participants engage in buying and selling shares, contributing to market liquidity and price movements.
Market indices, such as the Nifty and Sensex, track the performance of a group of selected stocks. They serve as benchmarks for the overall market's performance, helping investors gauge market trends and assess the health of the economy.
Successful investing in the share market requires a well-thought-out strategy. Investors need to diversify their portfolios, conduct thorough research, and understand their risk tolerance. Long-term and short-term strategies can be employed based on individual financial goals.