Investments are assets or items acquired for the purpose of generating interest payments, income, or appreciation in value. Real estate, stocks, bonds, options, annuities, mutual funds, cryptocurrencies, artwork, and collectibles are common examples of investments.

In Washington State, investments are regulated by both state and federal laws to protect investors and maintain fair market practices. The Washington Securities Act governs the sale of investment products like stocks, bonds, and mutual funds within the state. This Act requires the registration of securities, as well as licensing and oversight of brokers, dealers, and investment advisers. The Department of Financial Institutions' Securities Division is responsible for enforcing these regulations. Additionally, federal laws such as the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, overseen by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), also apply to investment activities in Washington. These laws mandate the disclosure of important financial information and prohibit fraud, insider trading, and market manipulation. For investments in real estate, the Washington State Department of Licensing regulates real estate brokers and salespersons. Cryptocurrencies, while still a relatively new asset class, are subject to both state and federal regulations, including anti-money laundering laws and potential securities regulations, depending on how they are structured and sold. Collectibles and artwork are less regulated than financial securities, but transactions involving these items may still be subject to state sales tax laws and federal tax implications.