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

The role of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is primarily to regulate the securities industry and protect investors. This includes enforcing federal securities laws, ensuring that investors receive information about securities being offered for public sale, and maintaining fair and efficient markets. The SEC's mandate focuses on promoting transparency, preventing fraud and insider trading, and fostering a trustworthy environment for investment. By overseeing the activities of securities exchanges and enforcing compliance with securities regulations, the SEC plays a crucial role in safeguarding the interests of investors while promoting healthy market practices.

In this context, the other options do not accurately represent the SEC's responsibilities. Managing the national debt is the responsibility of the Department of Treasury, while oversight of corporate tax regulations falls under the jurisdiction of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Facilitating international trade negotiations is typically handled by the Department of Commerce or the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. These distinctions highlight the SEC's unique position in the financial regulatory framework.