Introduction to NASDAQ
NASDAQ (National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations) is a global electronic marketplace for buying and selling securities. Launched in 1971, NASDAQ was the world’s first electronic stock market platform, and it transformed the way securities were traded by eliminating the need for a physical trading floor.
Key Features of NASDAQ
- All-Electronic Trading: NASDAQ was the first market to provide traders with electronic access to securities trading without a physical location.
- Large Market Cap: It is the largest stock market in the USA by number of companies listed, exceeding 3000 companies.
- Early Technology Adoption: Known for attracting tech giants and growth-oriented companies like Apple, Microsoft, and Google.
- Listing Requirements: Companies must meet tough financial and liquidity requirements to be listed on NASDAQ.
Examples of Companies on NASDAQ
- Apple Inc. (AAPL): A pioneering technology company known for its innovations in consumer electronics, software, and online services.
- Microsoft Corp. (MSFT): A global leader in software, services, devices, and solutions.
- Amazon Inc. (AMZN): An e-commerce and cloud computing giant.
- Google (GOOGL): A technology company specializing in internet-related services and products.
- Tesla Inc. (TSLA): An electric vehicle and clean energy company.
Frequently Asked Questions about NASDAQ
What is NASDAQ?
NASDAQ is the world’s first electronic stock market platform, offering a digital avenue for securities trading, established in 1971 by the National Association of Securities Dealers (NASD).
How does NASDAQ differ from the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE)?
Unlike the NYSE, which operates with a trading floor and specialists, NASDAQ is a completely electronic exchange, enabling faster and more efficient transactions.
Which companies are typically listed on NASDAQ?
NASDAQ is renowned for its high concentration of technology and innovative companies, though it also lists companies from various other sectors.
How can a company list on NASDAQ?
Companies must comply with NASDAQ’s rigorous listing requirements, including financial minimums, corporate governance standards, and continued listing standards for market liquidity and management team integrity.
What is the NASDAQ-100 index?
The NASDAQ-100 is a stock market index made up of 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on NASDAQ, celebrated for being a benchmark of technology and consumer services stocks.
Related Terms
- Electronic Communication Network (ECN): A digital system facilitating the trading of securities outside traditional stock exchanges.
- Market Capitalization: The total market value of a company’s outstanding shares of stock.
- Initial Public Offering (IPO): The process by which a private company becomes publicly traded by offering shares for sale to the general public.
- Over-the-Counter (OTC): A decentralized market where securities not listed on formal exchanges are traded through a dealer network.
- NASDAQ Composite: An index of all the stocks listed on NASDAQ, often referenced to gauge the performance of technology and growth companies.
Online Resources
- NASDAQ Official Website: NASDAQ.com
- Investopedia - NASDAQ: Investopedia NASDAQ
- Securities and Exchange Commission - NASDAQ: SEC Link
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Principles of Financial Accounting” by John J. Wild: A comprehensive guide covering the essentials of financial accounting.
- “The Intelligent Investor” by Benjamin Graham: A seminal work on investment strategies and market analysis.
- “Security Analysis” by Benjamin Graham and David Dodd: In-depth examination of investment and analysis methods.
- “Common Stocks and Uncommon Profits” by Philip Fisher: Techniques and strategies for stock investment.
- “A Random Walk Down Wall Street” by Burton G. Malkiel: An exploration of investment theory and practice.
Accounting Basics: “NASDAQ” Fundamentals Quiz
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