World Markets
The U.S. securities industry plays an integral part in powering the global economy. U.S.-based securities firms are international leaders in their roles of raising capital, helping investors develop and manage their investments, and counseling companies in buying, selling, and forming strategic alliances with other businesses.
Driven by economic, political, and technological changes, national economies became increasingly interdependent during the 1990s. As companies have aggressively expanded their international operations to become more competitive, satisfy global demand, and reduce production costs, securities firms have responded in turn by developing a global infrastructure that satisfies companies’ needs for greater access to capital, financial products, and information.
Technology has made it easier for individuals, businesses, and governments to invest abroad by expediting the processing and delivery of information. Trade policies that continue to reduce and eliminate barriers to intercontinental commerce are critical to continued global economic growth. Similarly, policymakers should work toward international harmonization of accounting rules, clearance and settlement, documentation, and regulation to further integrate the global securities marketplace.