What Are Stocks and How Do They Work?

A foundational look at what it means to own a stock and participate in a company's growth.

A simple, clean line chart showing positive stock growth.

Owning a stock, or a share, means you own a small piece of that company. As the company succeeds and grows its profits, the value of your share can increase. This article explains the basics of equity and how stock markets facilitate the buying and selling of these shares.