What is the "Dow"?
The "Dow" is usually referring to the Dow Jones Industrial Average, which is an index of 30 stocks, or 30 companies. The index is put together by the editors of the Wall Street Journal (owned by Dow Jones and Company) who makes the index. The index was originally put together as a barometer for the overall growth of our economy. Its relevance has decreased as of late, as it only really represents 30 really industrial-type companies, and it doesn't represent so much more of our economy today.