Knowledge of Capital Markets The first section of the SIE focuses on capital markets and economic factors. You should distinguish primary versus secondary markets: new issues are sold in the primary market  (typically via underwriting syndicates), whereas previously issued securities trade among investors in the secondary market . Different market centers include stock exchanges (NYSE, Nasdaq), over‑the‑counter (OTC) markets, and electronic trading networks. Key participants are issuers  (who...

The securities industry operates on trust, transparency, and regulation. Every transaction, investment recommendation, and client relationship must adhere to a complex web of laws designed to protect investors and maintain fair, efficient markets. For anyone preparing for the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) exam, understanding regulatory rules and suitability obligations  is essential. These principles are not just exam topics—they are the ethical foundation of the financial industry....

Every day, millions of trades occur across global financial markets, from individual investors buying shares to institutional traders managing billion-dollar portfolios. While most people focus on the outcome of their trades—the profits, losses, or portfolio performance—few understand what happens behind the scenes once an order is placed. The processes of trade execution, settlement, and account handling form the backbone of modern financial markets, ensuring that transactions occur...