The stock market in advanced economies allows people to participate in the economic development by investing their savings in equities of leading and emerging industries. It solves a number of economic and social problems. There is less than 1% of the population takes part in investing in shares and other securities In Russia.

The structure of Russian commercial organizations, the supply and demand of the Russian stock market are analyzes in the paper. Also the results of original sociological research explains the meaning of  the factors wich are limiting the population to investing in the stock market instruments. And there are some measures proposed for the further development of the Russian stock market.

The results of the research have both theoretical and practical significance. That can be used in the development of national and regional activities aimed at the development of the Stock Market and attracting the Russian population to invest the Stock Market instruments.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.12731/2218-7405-2013-3-23