This upward angled photograph captures the sleek modern architecture of the sec headquarters in washington d C The tall white stone pillar bears the inscription u S Securities and exchange commission alongside the official seal of the agency embossed in metallic silver The rest of the building features a glass curtain wall that curves upward reflecting the blue sky and creating a striking visual contrast between modern transparency and institutional authority The american flag waves proudly in the upper right corner reinforcing the buildings role in the federal government The sec plays a critical role in enforcing securities laws regulating exchanges and ensuring market integrity in the u S Financial system