The stock market has changed more in the last few years than it had previously over its entire history. Investing today is driven by technology, which can be both a blessing and a curse. It is as if faster computing speeds compel people to faster trading. But that is a mistake. The market has always favored long-term investors over speedy speculators, and it has never favored those who have not learned the basics. What is the stock market? What is a stock? How does the economy affect your investments? What types of accounts can you set up? What are your rights as an investor? There are many books that teach trading strategies, but few that encourage you to lay a foundation before you put money into building on it. This book will teach you what you need to know before you invest.