A company that deals with financial and monetary transactions such deposits, loans, investments, and currency exchange is known as a financial institution (FI). Banks, trust companies, insurance companies, brokerage firms, and investment dealers are just a few of the many business operations that fall under the umbrella term “financial institutions” in the financial services industry.
Financial activities are a crucial component of any economy, and consumers and businesses rely on financial institutions for transactions and investment. As a result, financial institutions provide services to the majority of people. Governments view supervision and regulation of banks and other financial institutions as essential due to their crucial role in the economy. Financial institution failures have in the past led to panic.
Financial institutions are crucial because they offer a market for money and assets, enabling effective capital allocation to the most beneficial uses. As an illustration, a bank accepts customer deposits and lends the money to borrowers. Without the bank acting as a middleman, it would be difficult for one person to discover a suitable borrower or understand how to manage the loan. As a result, the depositor can obtain interest through the bank. Investment banks similarly locate investors to whom they advertise a company’s shares or bonds.
