Financial services encompass a wide range of economic services for both people and businesses, from saving money to trading shares. They also include companies that help manage risk and provide capital, allowing businesses to grow and operate efficiently.

One example of a financial service is a bank, which collects deposits from those with money to pool and lend it to others. This gives those without a lot of cash the chance to have enough money for large purchases like a car or a house. Typically, those who borrow from banks pay the bank back with interest added on top of their original deposit.

Other examples of financial services include credit card networks and companies, mortgage lenders, personal and business loan providers and consumer finance firms such as American Express. These companies offer credit and debit cards accompanied by rewards programs, as well as loans for consumers with less-than-perfect credit.

Investment banks separate from traditional banks and focus on helping businesses raise capital. This can be done through underwriting debt and equity, or through mergers and acquisitions. Structured finance is another area, developing intricate (typically derivative) products for high net worth individuals and institutions with more complicated financial needs.

Accounting and tax filing services are also part of the financial services industry, as are currency exchange and wire transfer services. In addition, this sector includes global payment providers such as Visa and MasterCard, and financial exchanges that facilitate stock, bond, and commodity trades.