What to Know About Wall Street and the New York Stock Exchange

A historical and cultural symbol of the American economy, Wall Street is easily one of the most famous and best-known parts of New York City. This is especially true when it comes to the New York Stock Exchange, which not only plays a massive role in the global stock market but also has assumed a mighty position in the public imagination.

Here are a few of the most important things to know about Wall Street and the New York Stock Exchange!

Overview of Wall Street

Located in Lower Manhattan, Wall Street is a hugely significant base of operations for many of the world’s largest companies, to the extent that it has become synonymous with American business.

One of the most important things to know about Wall Street is that it is the location of two of the world’s biggest stock exchanges, the NASDAQ and the New York Stock Exchange.

New York Stock Exchange

Unquestionably the world’s largest stock exchange, the New York Stock Exchange has often been seen as the motor of American finance itself. In fact, the total market capitalization of all the companies listed on the exchange is approximately $30 trillion.

Role in the World Financial Markets

Due to its crucial position as the source for much of the world’s stock market transactions, global finance often takes its cues from Wall Street. This trend can be seen during both booms and busts, with Wall Street frequently being the first to react to an imminent economic recession.

As a result, many view the location as something of a financial leader in the world’s markets. While you’re all the way down in lower Manhattan it could be convenient to take a ferry to see the Statue Of Liberty!