Stock Market Indices Explained: S&P 500, NASDAQ, Dow Jones, and More (2025 Guide)

Stock market indices are essential tools for every investor. They track groups of stocks, providing a snapshot of market performance. The S&P 500 (the "all-star team") monitors 500 large companies, while NASDAQ focuses on tech. Dow Jones tracks just 30 blue-chip stocks, and Russell 2000 covers smaller companies. Understanding these indices helps you make informed investment decisions.