Define "capital market."

The capital market is a segment of the financial market where long-term debt and equity securities are issued and traded. This definition encompasses a wide range of financial instruments, including stocks, bonds, and other long-term investments, typically having maturities longer than one year. In the capital market, companies and governments raise funds to finance their operations, projects, or initiatives, allowing investors to buy these securities as a means of potentially earning a return over time.

Long-term securities are crucial for economic growth, as they provide the necessary funding for various ventures, including infrastructure projects, business expansions, and significant investments. This market facilitates the transfer of capital from those who have excess funds (investors) to those who need funds (borrowers), thereby supporting overall economic activity.

The other options describe different financial markets or securities transactions, but they do not align with the broader and defining characteristics of the capital market focused on long-term financial instruments. Short-term securities pertain to the money market, while government bonds are just one segment of the capital market. Foreign exchange transactions occur in a completely different market dedicated to currency trading.