Introduction to the Stock Market

Class One: INTRODUCTION & OVERVIEW: 

This class introduces the basics of the U.S. stock market, including its history, major exchanges and the difference between public & private companies. You’ll learn about stock market indexes, key market participants and the difference between bull and bear markets. 

This class also defines broad investment classes (like stocks, funds, bonds, commodities, currencies, etc.), regulation & disclosure requirements, and investment accounts, providing a broad foundation from which to begin your investing journey.

Class Two: STOCKS 101:

This class dives deeper into information about stocks and what affects stock price movement. We explore different ways companies are categorized: industry groups and sectors, cyclical vs. defensive stocks, market capitalization and more. 

We walk-through basic stock data elements and charts to understand performance history. Additional topics include: investing risk and diversification, volatility, and market trading hours, providing an essential understanding necessary to evaluate companies as potential investments.

Class Three: GETTING STARTED: 

This class focuses putting your knowledge into action. Students practice with a stock market simulator and we learn about fundamental vs. technical stock analysis and common portfolio management strategies. 

Walk through how to place a trade, about dollar cost averaging and how to begin to invest starting from zero. The class discusses the role of advisors as well as self-directed investing platforms. Finally, we define custodial accounts and general tax reporting requirements for investment gains & losses. 

NO INVESTMENT ADVICE. Educational, informational, hopefully motivational.