Introduction to Investing
Many people just like you turn to the markets to help buy a home, send children to college, or build a retirement nest egg. But unlike the banking world, where deposits are guaranteed by federal deposit insurance, the value of stocks, bonds, and other securities fluctuates with market conditions. No one can guarantee that you’ll make money from your investments, and they may lose value.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission enforces the laws on how investments are offered and sold to you. Protecting investors is an important part of our mission. We cannot tell you what investments to make, but this website provides unbiased information to help you evaluate your choices and protect yourself against fraud.
Are you headed in the right direction?
Visit the Roadmap to Saving and Investing
A few people may stumble into financial security. But for most people, the only way to attain financial security is to save and invest over a long period of time. You just need to have your money work for you. That’s investing.
Knowing how to secure your financial well-being is one of the most important things you’ll ever need in life. You don’t have to be a genius to do it. You just need to know a few basics, form a plan, and be ready to stick to it. There is no guarantee that you’ll make money from investments you make. But if you get the facts about saving and investing and follow through with an intelligent plan, you should be able to gain financial security over the years and enjoy the benefits of managing your money. For more information, SEC’s publication Saving and Investing: A Roadmap To Your Financial Security Through Saving and Investing.
How the Markets Work
The stock market is where buyers and sellers meet to decide on the price to buy or sell securities, usually with the assistance of a broker: Let's take a closer look at what you need to know about how stocks are traded.
The Role of the SEC
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission enforces the laws on how investments are offered and sold to you. Protecting investors is an important part of our mission.
Retirement and Retirement Plans
For most Americans, a retirement savings plan, which you build over time during your working years, is an essential part of securing your retirement. Learn what you can do, while employed and once retired, to make the most of your investments.
Retirement Plans
Learn about retirement plans and how to maximize your benefits.
Employer-Sponsored Plans
- 401(k)
- 403(b)
- Pension Plans
- ESOPs
Federal Government Plans
- FERS
- CSRS
- TSP
Self-Directed Plans
- IRAs - traditional
- Roth
- SEP
- SIMPLE
Switching Jobs
Understand the investment implications that come with a job change and related terminology such as lump sum distributions and rollovers.
Retirement
Find out how to manage your life's savings.
Info for new retirees and seniors
Senior Specialist Designations
What do they really mean?
How the Social Security system works
Avoiding Retirement Fraud
Avoid becoming a victim and help others
