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What is Share Market? Meaning, Types

Share Market is where investors buy and sell stocks of publicly traded companies, offering opportunities for capital gains and investment growth.
authorImageShruti Dutta12 Aug, 2024
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What is Share Market? Meaning, Types

The share market, often referred to as the stock market, is a financial marketplace where investors can buy and sell shares of publicly traded companies. It serves as a platform for companies to raise capital by issuing ownership stakes (shares) to the public. Investors can acquire these shares to earn returns through price appreciation and dividends.

The share market plays a crucial role in the economy by providing businesses with the funds needed for growth and expansion while offering investors opportunities to participate in companies' financial success. It operates through various exchanges and trading platforms, ensuring transparency and regulation in the trading process.

What is the Share Market?

The share market, also known as the stock market, is a platform where buyers and sellers trade shares of publicly listed companies. It allows companies to raise capital by issuing shares to investors, who become partial company owners. In the share market, investors can buy and sell these shares, potentially earning returns through capital gains (if the share price increases) and dividends (if the company distributes profits). The market operates through various exchanges, such as the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) or the National Stock Exchange (NSE), where transactions are facilitated and regulated to ensure transparency and fair trading practices.

Why Invest in the Share Market?

Investing in the share market offers several compelling advantages for those seeking to build and grow their wealth. Here are some key benefits:
  • Potential for High Returns : Historically, the share market has provided opportunities for substantial returns compared to many other investment avenues, especially over the long term.
  • Ownership in Companies : Purchasing shares grants you a stake in the company. As the company’s value and profits increase, so does the value of your investment.
  • Diversification : By investing in various companies across different sectors, you can spread your risk and mitigate the impact of any underperforming investment.
  • Liquidity : The share market is highly liquid, allowing you to easily convert your investments into cash by selling your shares.
  • Long-Term Wealth Creation : Shares can contribute to long-term wealth accumulation through capital appreciation and dividend income, making them a powerful tool for growing your financial assets over time.
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Types of share market

Share markets are crucial for facilitating the buying and selling of securities. They are divided into various types based on the nature of transactions and the type of securities traded. Here are the main types of share markets:

Primary Market

The primary market is where companies issue new shares for the first time to raise capital. Investors purchase these shares directly from the company or through an underwriter in an Initial Public Offering (IPO). The funds raised from this issuance go directly to the company. This market is essential for businesses seeking equity financing to start or expand their operations.

Secondary Market

The secondary market trades existing shares between investors after the initial public offering. Transactions in this market do not involve the issuing company. Share prices in the secondary market fluctuate based on supply, demand, and overall market conditions. This market allows investors to buy or sell securities to realise capital gains or losses.

Equity Market

In the equity market, companies sell investors ownership stakes (shares). Buyers place bids (the price they are willing to pay), and sellers set ask prices (the minimum price they will accept). Brokers facilitate negotiations; the trade is executed when the buyer and seller agree on a price. The buyer pays the total cost (stock price multiplied by the number of shares, plus any fees), and the shares are transferred to their account.

Derivative Market

The derivative market involves trading contracts like futures and options. These contracts allow speculation on the price movement of stocks without actually owning them. Futures and options are agreements to buy or sell stock at a specified price by a certain date. Trading in this market involves substantial quantities and requires an understanding of these financial instruments.

How to Invest in Share Market?

Whether you are a novice or an experienced investor, understanding the steps involved can help you make informed decisions. Here’s a basic guide on how to get started with investing in the share market: Investing in the Primary Market (IPOs) : To invest in Initial Public Offerings (IPOs), you'll need a demat and trading account. You can also apply for an IPO directly through your bank account. The application supported by the Blocked Amount (ASBA) process simplifies IPO applications through net banking, making participation easier. Investing in the Secondary Market : Follow these steps to invest in the secondary market: Step 1 : Open a Demat and trading account with a brokerage firm. Step 2 : Log in to your trading account and select the stocks you wish to purchase. Step 3 : Set your desired price point for buying or selling shares. Wait for the transaction to be executed per the buyer's or seller's agreement. Step 4 : Once the transaction is completed, the shares or money will be credited to your Demat account accordingly.

Share Market Basics - Important Terms

  • Demat Account : A demat account is a digital account that stores securities such as shares, bonds, and mutual fund units in electronic form.
  • Stock Broker : A stock broker acts as an intermediary between traders or investors and the stock exchange, executing buy and sell trades on behalf of clients.
  • Trading Account : A trading account is an electronic account provided by a stock broker that enables traders and investors to buy and sell shares and other securities on the stock exchange.
  • Portfolio : A portfolio refers to a collection of assets an investor has invested in, which can consist of various types of the same asset class or different asset classes.
  • Index : An index is a group of stocks listed on stock exchanges that measures the stock market's performance as a whole or in specific sectors.
  • Sensex : Sensex is a broad market index created by the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE). It comprises 30 top companies listed based on market capitalization, representing multiple sectors of the economy.
  • Nifty : The Nifty is a broad market index established by the National Stock Exchange. It consists of 50 top companies listed by market capitalization. Like Sensex, it includes stocks from major sectors and industries.
  • Bullish Market : A market is bullish when stock prices have been rising over some time.
  • Ask Price : The asking price is the lowest amount a seller will accept for an asset. Details of the asks can also be accessed via the stockbroker’s trading portal.
  • Dividend : Companies may distribute a portion of their profits to shareholders, known as dividends, which can be issued in cash or as additional shares.
  • Derivatives : Derivatives are financial instruments whose value derives from an underlying asset. They include futures and options and can be traded freely on exchanges.

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What is Share Market? FAQs

How can I start investing in the share market?

Open a Demat and trading account with a brokerage firm, research stocks, and use the account to buy and sell shares.

What risks are associated with the share market?

Risks include market volatility and potential loss from poor company performance or economic downturns.

How does the share market work?

Companies issue shares in the primary market, which are then traded among investors in the secondary market. Share prices fluctuate based on company performance and market conditions.
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