NASDAQ is the abbreviation of the National Association of Securities Dealers Automatic Quotation Association, and it is an electronic stock exchange in the United States. Founded in 1971, it is currently the second largest stock exchange in the world by market capitalization, after the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). Nasdaq is known for listing many well-known technology companies, including Apple, Amazon, Microsoft, Google (Alphabet), Facebook and more. It is known as a center for technology and innovative companies. Unlike traditional exchanges, which trade in physical locations, Nasdaq is a fully electronic exchange. It uses computerized systems to facilitate transactions and provide investors with real-time stock quotes, market information and trade execution.
Nasdaq is divided into three market tiers based on the financial requirements and qualifications of listed companies. These tiers are Nasdaq Global Select Market, Nasdaq Global Market and Nasdaq Capital Market. Each tier has specific listing criteria, with select markets globally having the highest requirements. In addition to stocks (stocks), a variety of other financial instruments are also traded on Nasdaq, including options, futures, and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). It has expanded its services beyond the United States and operates exchanges in several countries around the world.