Which company issued what is often considered the world's first publicly traded stock in 1602?

The Dutch East India Company issued what is often considered the world's first publicly traded stock in 1602.

The company, known as the VOC, was chartered by the Dutch Republic to conduct trade in Asia. Its large voyages required more capital than a single merchant could provide, so the company raised money from many investors. In return, subscribers received transferable ownership interests and could share in potential profits.

The VOC's shares could be bought and sold in Amsterdam, helping establish an early secondary market. This arrangement differed from a modern stock corporation in several legal and practical ways, but it introduced a lasting model: many investors providing capital to one enterprise.

The VOC is often confused with the British East India Company, which was founded earlier in 1600. The British company was older, but the VOC is especially associated with the first widely recognized public stock offering and organized share trading. The Amsterdam Stock Exchange developed alongside this activity.