What role does the New York Stock Exchange play?

The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) plays a crucial role in the financial markets by acting as a marketplace for buying and selling stocks. It facilitates transactions between buyers and sellers, allowing companies to raise capital by selling shares of stock to investors. This platform provides transparency and liquidity, ensuring that investors can easily enter and exit positions in various securities. The presence of the NYSE enables public companies to attract investments, which can lead to growth and expansion.

In contrast, other options involve functions not associated with the NYSE. The exchange does not regulate financial markets globally; regulation is typically the responsibility of entities like the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). It also does not provide loans to businesses, as that service is typically offered by banks and other lending institutions. Lastly, the NYSE is not a government agency; it is a private entity that operates as a self-regulatory organization within a broader financial system.