Which of the following is NOT typically part of personal finance?

The concept of personal finance encompasses the management of an individual’s financial activities, which primarily includes saving, budgeting, and planning for future financial needs such as insurance. Each of these components plays a critical role in helping individuals achieve their financial goals and maintain financial health.

Saving involves setting aside a portion of income for future use, which is crucial for emergency funds or long-term financial goals. Budgeting is the process of creating a plan to allocate income for various expenses and savings, thus facilitating better control over one’s finances. Insurance planning is essential for protecting assets and managing risks, ensuring that individuals are prepared for unforeseen circumstances.

In contrast, stock market manipulation refers to unethical or illegal practices aimed at artificially influencing the price of securities for personal gain. This activity falls outside the realm of personal finance as it does not promote responsible financial management or investment strategies. Rather, it undermines the integrity of financial markets and can lead to severe legal consequences. Thus, stock market manipulation is not a legitimate or recognized component of personal finance, making it the correct response in this scenario.