The Nasdaq Stock Market is a global electronic marketplace for buying and selling securities, primarily stocks. Founded in 1971, it was the first electronic exchange and is known for its high-tech companies, including major players like Apple, Microsoft, and Amazon. Unlike traditional stock exchanges, the Nasdaq operates through a network of computers, allowing for faster transactions and greater accessibility. It is also home to the Nasdaq Composite, an index that tracks the performance of over 3,000 stocks listed on the exchange, providing investors with insights into market trends.