Which is NOT a function of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)?

The function that is NOT a responsibility of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is the setting of interest rates for banks. The SEC's primary role is to regulate the securities industry, which includes overseeing the issuance of securities, enforcing federal securities laws, and protecting investors from fraudulent practices.

Interest rate setting is typically managed by the Federal Reserve, which is the central bank of the United States. The Federal Reserve influences monetary policy, including interest rates, to promote maximum employment, stable prices, and moderate long-term interest rates. Therefore, the correct answer highlights a key distinction in regulatory roles within the U.S. financial system, emphasizing the SEC's focus on market integrity and investor protection rather than monetary policy.