Capital Markets Industry

Capital markets are financial systems where long-term funding is raised through the issuance and trading of securities like stocks and bonds, connecting savers with investors and facilitating economic growth. They consist of primary markets where new securities are issued and secondary markets where existing securities are traded. These markets are vital for corporate finance, enabling companies to access capital for expansion and operations. In 2026, the U.S. maintains its dominance with 43.7% of global equity market capitalization and strong IPO activity, while global fixed income markets reach $160.7 trillion. The sector is evolving with increased focus on digital infrastructure, regulatory changes, and the growing importance of private markets.