y is the stock market so important ove say gdp or gross profits?

[AllaN01Bear]

[getagrip_already]

1. Its where a lot of people keep their savings.....

It's more of a measure of people's financial self awareness than national economy.

It's a national gambling addiction, but it's important to a great many people.

[marble falls]

2. What other way is there to value a company, except by what the market thinks it's worth?