Wall Street, located in the Financial District of Lower Manhattan, is synonymous with the financial industry in the United States. It is home to the New York Stock Exchange and several major financial institutions. The term "Wall Street" is often used as a metonym for the American financial markets. The street's name originates from a wall built by Dutch settlers in the 17th century to protect the colony from invasions. Wall Street has been the center of numerous financial events and trends, shaping the global economy. Its influence extends far beyond its physical location, impacting economies worldwide.