AI Hub 2 August 2024 What Is the Purpose of the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) and Why Should You Care? The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA), commonly referred to as the Dow, is one of the most renowned and long-standing stock market indices in the world. Established by Charles Dow in 1896, this index consists of 30 large publicly-owned companies based in the United States. Its purpose is multifaceted, serving not only as a barometer of general market trends but also as a benchmark for individual investors. Here's why understanding the DJIA is crucial for anyone involved in trading and investing. Understanding the DJIA The DJIA is composed of 30 significant corporations, which represent a wide array of industries, except for utilities and transportation, which have their own specific indices — the Dow Jones Utility Average and the Dow Jones Transportation Average, respectively. This makes the DJIA a broad gauge...