The financial services industry enables people to invest in companies and earn profit. It advances loans for business expansion and mortgages, helps build savings for the future, and provides insurance against risk. A healthy financial sector is a sign of economic stability.

Many people associate the term “financial services” with Wall Street and other major investment firms. But the industry is much broader than that. Financial services encompasses everything from small community banks to credit unions and even the nonprofits that help people save for a rainy day.

One of the most vital aspects of any economy is its finance sector. It is what drives the health of the economy. If it is weak, then a country’s economy is likely to follow suit.

Financial institutions provide depository services by accepting deposits from consumers and businesses. These deposits are often deposited in checking accounts and savings accounts that earn interest. In addition, financial services companies also extend credit to borrowers, who may need capital for various reasons. This type of credit is typically backed by collateral, such as assets or property.

Finally, financial services also include brokerage services. Brokerages act as middlemen between buyers and sellers of securities, such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, shares, options, and commodities. They facilitate the purchase and sale of these instruments, earning a commission in the process. Financial services also provide for the transfer of money between countries, which is a key aspect of global commerce.