Financial services refer to the various economic activities that are carried out by financial institutions. These services are vital for the development of any economy. They help in promoting investment, production, saving, etc.
The main objective of these institutions is to ensure that adequate funds are available in the economy to boost production and reap profits. They also provide an opportunity for companies to raise funds through the capital market. This helps in improving the economic growth and also provides for a healthy environment for business and trade.
Banks, Insurance Companies and Stock Brokerages are the major financial institutions that provide a range of services. They deal with a variety of financial instruments including stocks, bonds, loans and commodity assets. They also sell products for investment, such as mutual funds and real estate.
Insurance agents, brokers, reinsurers and underwriters are also part of the financial services industry. They work to protect people from unexpected expenses such as accidents, illness and loss of job.
Credit card issuers and processors are also in this sector, as well as global payment providers like Visa and Mastercard. They offer credit cards and debit cards, and often include additional financial tools like point-of-sale applications and personal finance management.
Mortgage lenders and student loan services are other areas of the financial services industry. These businesses help people pay for college, home ownership, and other long-term goals by financing them with a debt repayment plan.
The financial services industry is a vital part of NYC’s and the world’s economies. As a financial services professional, you can make a difference in the lives of others and help shape our nation’s future every day.
Consumer Banking
Retail and commercial banks provide banking services to consumers and small businesses, while investment banks offer financial products to companies that need a high level of financial sophistication. Some of these firms also provide investment and pension services to corporations.
Securities and exchanges are another important segment of the financial services industry. These firms offer trading and exchange services, which enable investors to buy or sell stocks, bonds and other assets.
Financing and treasury services are also part of the industry. They provide funding and treasury management to organizations that need to secure liquidity in the form of short-term, medium-term or long-term debt.
In addition to these areas, the industry includes investment managers and brokers who manage money for individual and institutional clients. This includes specialized (typically derivative) products for high net worth individuals and institutions with complicated financial needs.
Digital Gig Work
Financial services is increasingly becoming a digital environment, where customers can control their finances from anywhere via mobile devices. This means that banks, credit card issuers and networks need to keep up with technology developments to stay competitive.
Financial services is an exciting industry that offers a wide array of career opportunities and a huge array of transferable skills. This industry is a good place to start if you want to be your own boss and build a successful career in a growing industry.