The document discusses the role and history of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). It was created in 1929 after the stock market crash to restore confidence in markets. The SEC aims to protect investors, maintain fair and orderly markets, and facilitate capital formation. It requires certain companies to file annual and periodic financial reports to provide transparency to investors. The document outlines various forms such as 10-K, 8-K, 10-Q that are filed with the SEC to disclose important company information.