Which agency regulates securities markets in the United States?

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is the primary agency responsible for regulating securities markets in the United States. Established in 1934, the SEC's primary functions include protecting investors, maintaining fair, orderly, and efficient markets, and facilitating capital formation. The SEC enforces securities laws to promote transparency and prevent fraud, requiring publicly-traded companies to disclose key financial information.

While the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board (MSRB) plays a vital role in the governance of municipal securities, it is more focused on the conduct of broker-dealers and other professionals in the municipal securities market rather than overall market regulation like the SEC. The Debt Issuance Team and Financial Professionals are not recognized regulatory bodies in the context of U.S. securities markets. These entities may work in finance or assist in transactions, but they do not have the authority to regulate the market.