The stock market is a platform where buyers and sellers trade shares of publicly listed companies. Understanding its basics is essential for anyone interested in investing or trading. This includes knowing how stocks are issued, how stock exchanges function, and the role of brokers, investors, and regulators. Beginners should also learn key concepts like market capitalization, index tracking, dividends, IPOs, and share prices. By grasping the fundamentals, investors can better navigate market movements, evaluate opportunities, and avoid common mistakes. Whether you aim to trade actively or invest for the long term, a strong foundation in stock market basics is the first step toward making informed financial decisions.