What is the main role of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)?

The main role of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is to regulate the stock market and protect investors. This agency was established to enforce federal securities laws and promote transparency in the financial markets, ensuring that investors have access to essential information that allows them to make informed decisions. The SEC oversees securities transactions, regulates stock exchanges, and works to maintain fair and efficient markets. By doing so, it helps to prevent fraud and maintain investor confidence in the financial system, which is crucial for the stability and integrity of the economy.

The other options pertain to different areas of regulation and oversight. Managing bank operations and interest rates falls under the purview of central banks, overseeing international trade agreements involves trade commissions or departments, and monitoring inflation rates is typically the responsibility of economic analysts or central banks focusing on monetary policy. Each of these alternatives addresses distinct aspects of economic governance that are separate from the SEC's mandate, which is primarily centered on securities regulation and investor protection.