Financial services is the sector of the economy that enables businesses to acquire the funds they need to boost production and make more profits. Without the services, companies would find it difficult to borrow money.
There are several types of providers that help channel cash from savers to borrowers and redistribute risk. These include banks, insurance companies and securities traders.
Banks act as middlemen between depositors who provide their bank with money and borrowers who want to borrow it. They pool money from depositors, lend it to borrowers and earn revenue by charging interest on loans.
Banking services are provided by large commercial banks, community banks and credit unions. They earn their income by levying fees, commissions and by the spread on interest rates between loans and deposits.
Investment banks are also part of the financial services industry, but they specialize in raising capital for businesses. Their financial services include mergers and acquisitions, underwriting debt and equity, restructuring and investment management.
The financial services sector is a vital part of our economy. It allows us to buy and sell goods, pay bills and keep track of our savings. It also makes it possible to trade our assets on the stock market. In addition, it helps us get access to a range of other financial products.