<p>Shares, also known as stocks, represent units of ownership in a corporation. They are traded on stock exchanges, allowing investors to buy or sell them.</p>

<h2>How It Works</h2>
<p>When a company issues shares, it's essentially selling a piece of itself to investors. Each share represents a claim on the company's assets and earnings. Shareholders may receive a portion of the company's profits in the form of dividends, and they have voting rights on major corporate decisions.</p>
<p>Shares can be bought or sold through a stockbroker or online trading platforms. The price of a share is determined by supply and demand in the open market. When more people want to buy a stock than sell it, the price goes up. Conversely, when more people want to sell than buy, the price goes down.</p>
<p>There are two main types of shares: common and preferred. Common shares are the most basic type, offering voting rights and a claim on the company's assets. Preferred shares may not offer voting rights, but they often have priority over common shares in terms of dividends and asset distribution.</p>

<h2>Why It Matters</h2>
<p>Shares are a crucial part of the global economy. They allow companies to raise capital by selling ownership to investors, and they give investors the opportunity to participate in the growth and profits of companies they believe in.</p>
<p>For example, consider Apple Inc. When Apple issues shares, it raises money to invest in research and development, expand its business, or pay off debt. Meanwhile, investors who buy Apple shares hope to profit from the company's success. If Apple's earnings grow, the price of its shares may increase, allowing investors to sell them at a profit. If Apple pays dividends, investors receive a share of the company's profits.</p>
<p>In this way, shares serve as a bridge between companies and investors, fostering economic growth and creating wealth for both parties.</p>