SEC Launches Web Site Devoted to Investor Education

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) today launched an investor education Web site that provides investors with in-depth information and "top tips" on how to invest wisely, plan for the future, and avoid being scammed.

The site, www.investor.gov, includes sections specifically for those just getting started investing, for those saving for a child’s education, and for those planning for retirement, the SEC said. It also has a detailed “Seniors Care Package” section for senior citizens and caretakers.

The Web site also offers an “En Español” section exclusively in Spanish that presents information about what to do if an investor feels that he or she has been a fraud victim, as well as a Spanish-language podcast explaining the history and functions of the SEC.

In a welcome video on the new site, SEC Chairman Mary Schapiro says, “You’ll find resources that can help you analyze your current holdings or even check the background of a registered financial professional.”

The SEC said the site will be further enhanced with additional investor education resources in the coming weeks and months. On the home page at www.sec.gov, visitors can sign up to receive information and instant e-mail alerts on more than 80 topics of interest to investors as well as other market participants.

Social Media

The agency noted in its press release that the Web site is the latest in a series of the agency's social media initiatives. It also reaches investors online through other social media channels such as Twitter and YouTube:

«