Which of the following is a primary goal of the SEC?

The primary goal of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is to administer federal securities laws. This function involves enforcing these laws to protect investors, maintain fair, orderly, and efficient markets, and facilitate capital formation. The SEC oversees the securities industry by ensuring that companies provide accurate and timely information to current and potential investors. This transparency is crucial for informed investment decisions, as it helps to promote trust and integrity in the financial markets.

The other options, while related to financial matters or regulation, do not reflect the SEC's main responsibilities. For instance, the promotion of monopolies contradicts the SEC’s mission of fostering market competition and investor protection. Providing financial advice to investors falls outside the SEC's regulatory framework, as its role is not to offer personalized investment guidance. Additionally, regulating local businesses does not align with the SEC's focus on the broader securities markets rather than on localized business operations.