What key function does the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) perform?

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) primarily functions to enforce federal securities laws, which is crucial for maintaining a fair and orderly market. This responsibility encompasses overseeing the securities industry, protecting investors, and promoting capital formation. The SEC establishes regulations that publicly traded companies must follow, ensuring transparency and accuracy in financial reporting. By doing so, it aims to prevent fraud and other malpractices in the market, thereby fostering investor confidence.

Other options do not accurately reflect the SEC's primary role. For example, while the SEC oversees the trading of securities, it does not actively monitor trades on exchanges in the way a regulatory or self-regulatory organization might. Additionally, the SEC does not issue securities on behalf of the government; its focus is on regulation and enforcement. Lastly, while the SEC does offer educational resources, it does not provide personal investment advice to the public.