An exchange is a process where two or more parties give and receive items, services, or information. This can happen in many forms, such as trading goods at a market or swapping ideas in a discussion. For example, when you trade a book with a friend, you both benefit from getting something new to read. In the world of finance, an exchange often refers to a marketplace where stocks, currencies, or commodities are bought and sold. The New York Stock Exchange is a well-known example, where investors can trade shares of companies like Apple or Tesla.