What does "market capitalization" indicate?

Market capitalization, often referred to as "market cap," is a measure that indicates the total value of a company's outstanding shares of stock. It is calculated by multiplying the current price of a company's share by the total number of outstanding shares. This metric serves as an important indicator of a company's size, market value, and the overall perception of its worth in the marketplace.

For investors and analysts, market capitalization provides a quick snapshot of a company's financial standing relative to others in the market. It can categorize companies into different segments, such as large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap, which can help inform investment strategies and risk assessments.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately convey the meaning of market capitalization. While share price growth, annual revenue generation, and public interest can play roles in a company’s performance and perception, they do not directly define its market capitalization.