What do SEC regulations primarily focus on?

SEC regulations primarily focus on securities trading because the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) was established to regulate and oversee the securities industry. Its main goal is to protect investors, maintain fair and efficient markets, and facilitate capital formation. This includes ensuring that companies provide full and fair disclosure of information to the public, which helps investors make informed decisions about buying and selling securities.

The SEC enforces laws against market manipulation and promotes transparency in the trading of securities. By regulating how securities are issued and traded, the SEC plays a key role in maintaining investor confidence and the stability of the financial markets. Thus, the emphasis on securities trading aligns directly with the SEC's regulatory framework and mission. Other areas such as consumer protection, intellectual property, and workplace safety, while important in their own contexts, do not fall under the primary focus of SEC regulations.