Throughout much of recorded financial history—at least since the 1800s—Wall Street companies were considered the financial nexus of the investment world. Formerly home to most the of the largest banks, investment firms, analysts, and, of course, the New York Stock Exchange, Wall Street and its inhabitants have influenced the financial mood and success of the U.S. and the world for many years.

Many believe that the U.S. financial center shifted a bit from the “Street” upon the completion of the World Trade Center (1970-1971) because of the emergence of the global economy. Yet, Wall Street stock market activities and companies remain the “spiritual” center of the world’s financial events. Regardless of the pre-eminence of the Internet and high-speed global communications, ringing the Wall Street bell in the morning signals the start of the financial day for many investors around the world.

New investors should pay attention to Wall Street companies and their activities. Companies offering Wall Street quotes, forecasts, and analysis still deliver high value to new and experienced investors alike. Respect is not a given; it is earned. Even the original Customer’s Afternoon Letter, which evolved into the venerable Wall Street Journal, like all Wall Street companies, earned its reputation over many years of delivering news, opinion, and projections based on solid research and technique.

Newer, younger investors should always remember the adage, “Those who do not learn from history have no future.” Wall Street companies still have much to offer investors, young and old. Listen, read, evaluate, and learn.