Which organization is responsible for administering federal securities laws?

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is the organization responsible for administering federal securities laws. It was established to protect investors, maintain fair and orderly functioning of the securities markets, and facilitate capital formation. This is achieved through the enforcement of regulations that govern securities transactions, ensuring transparency and ethical conduct among market participants.

The SEC plays a crucial role in overseeing the securities industry, which includes regulating stock exchanges, securities brokers and dealers, investment advisors, and mutual funds. It requires public companies to disclose financial and other significant information to ensure that investors have access to necessary data for making informed decisions.

This regulatory framework is vital for maintaining investor confidence and ensuring the integrity of the financial markets. The other organizations listed have different mandates: the Federal Trade Commission focuses on consumer protection and maintaining competition, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau oversees consumer financial products and services, and the Internal Revenue Service is responsible for tax collection and tax law enforcement. Each of these agencies has important roles but does not administer federal securities laws as the SEC does.