Financial services is a broad industry of businesses that provide a variety of money and investment related services. These include credit unions, banks, insurance companies, accountancy companies, stock brokerages, investment funds, individual managers and some government-sponsored enterprises.
The main goal of these firms is to manage people’s money and investments. In this way, they can help individuals and corporations make the most of their savings.
A key aspect of the financial services industry is that it serves all sectors of the economy – from small businesses to large companies and nonprofits to governments. As a result, you can find jobs in all kinds of places if you have the right skills.
There are a number of different sectors that comprise the financial services industry, and each has its own specialties. Traditionally, these include the banking industry which offers checking and savings accounts and loan associations that offer mortgages.
Some other sectors also deal with money, such as trust funds and stockbrokers. These organisations take money from savers, invest it and aim to buy at a lower price and sell at a higher one.
Another sector that is involved in the financial services industry is the consumer finance market, which helps individuals afford products and services. From paying for college to investing in real estate, these firms can make the financial process easier.
Various financial institutions are regulated by independent agencies that oversee their operations, uphold transparency and ensure their clients are treated fairly. This oversight is essential to the financial services industry and to the wider economy.