SEC
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is a United States government agency responsible for regulating the securities market and protecting investors. The SEC was established in 1934 by the Securities Exchange Act, and is responsible for maintaining fair markets, facilitating capital formation and ensuring transparency in financial transactions.
The SEC has a wide range of regulatory powers, including the authority to impose penalties and fines for violations of securities laws, and the authority to establish rules and regulations for market participants, including publicly traded companies, brokers, dealers and credit rating agencies.