Final answer:
The primary scope of the SEC is to oversee financial markets and securities, regulate the sale of securities and supervise entities involved in financial transactions to maintain fair and efficient markets.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary scope of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in the United States is C) Overseeing financial markets and securities. The SEC plays a crucial role in regulating and supervising the sale of securities, including stocks and bonds, and the brokers, dealers, and bankers involved in these transactions. Established through the Federal Securities Act and later legislation, the SEC aims to maintain fair, orderly, and efficient markets, protect investors, and facilitate capital formation. The agency has seen its mission expand significantly, especially with the advancement of technology and digital trading platforms, ensuring it remains relevant and effective in modern financial markets.