In written form, a symbol can be a single [[character]], [[letter]], [[number]], shape or a combination of several of these to designate something. In [[mathematics]] the [[algebra]]ic symbols ''x'' and ''y'' represent [[unknown]] or [[variable]] [[quantities]]. In [[chemistry]] the [[element]]s are assigned one ot two-letter symbols such as He for [[helium]]. In financial markets stocks, bonds, [[mutual fund]]s etc. are are given symbols comprising a small series of letters. Generally the fewer letters that a financial instrument has then the more important and widely traded it is. | In written form, a symbol can be a single [[character]], [[letter]], [[number]], shape or a combination of several of these to designate something. In [[mathematics]] the [[algebra]]ic symbols ''x'' and ''y'' represent [[unknown]] or [[variable]] [[quantities]]. In [[chemistry]] the [[element]]s are assigned one ot two-letter symbols such as He for [[helium]]. In financial markets stocks, bonds, [[mutual fund]]s etc. are are given symbols comprising a small series of letters. Generally the fewer letters that a financial instrument has then the more important and widely traded it is. |