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Large-cap

A large cap (short for ‘large capital marketization’ and often referred to as ‘big cap’) is a publicly traded company which has a capital valuation of 10 billion or more through its traded shares.

What is meant by large-cap (big cap)?

Market capitalization is calculated by multiplying the number of a company's shares outstanding by its stock price per share. So if a company’s stock price is £150 and is made up of 3 million shares, the large cap would equate to £450 billion. It therefore falls within the bracket of what is defined as a large cap because its valuation is above and beyond the £10 billion cap. In other words, it’s performing pretty well!

Large cap companies are usually found in the global indexes, such as the S&P 500 and FTSE 100. This is because they are companies which are well established, stable and perform well. They are leaders within the industry, offering innovative solutions – for example, Apple and Tesla who are leading the way in technology and green energy

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • A large cap company is one that has a capital valuation of $10 billion or more through its traded shares
  • Examples of large cap companies include Amazon, Microsoft and Tesla
  • Large cap companies are usually found in the global indexes such as the S&P 500 and FTSE 100
  • If you have a low risk appetite, investing in large-cap stocks is a good way to make steady returns

Investing in large-cap stocks

Large cap stocks are considered a good investment option if you’re in it for the long haul. Whilst they may not generate quick returns than say a small-cap or mid-cap company with lots of growth potential, they are a safer option due to their stability. So if your risk appetite is low, large cap stocks are the way to go.

Large-cap examples

Consider some of the largest and most memorable companies in the world. Some examples would be:

  • Apple
  • Tesla
  • Amazon
  • Microsoft
  • Exxon Mobil
  • Google
  • Coca Cola

…the biggest names out there basically!