What does NASD stand for?

The term NASD stands for the National Association of Securities Dealers. This organization played a critical role in the regulation and oversight of the securities industry in the United States. Founded in 1939, NASD was pivotal in creating a self-regulatory framework that governed brokerage firms and registered representatives. It developed important rules and practices for the fair trading of securities, aimed at protecting investors and ensuring market integrity.

The other options mentioned do not match the historical and functional context of NASD. While they might seem plausible at first glance, none of them represent the actual organization that was established to oversee the standards and practices of the securities industry. NASD eventually merged with the New York Stock Exchange's regulation functions to form the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), but its original name and purpose are encapsulated fully in the correct answer.