Financial services is a massive industry that encompasses anything to do with money. The sector includes everything from banking to investment to insurance and beyond, impacting individuals, businesses, and governments in a myriad of ways. In the broadest sense, it covers everything that touches money—from mortgages and insurance policies to remittances and credit card services. The sector also includes things like debt resolution services and global payment systems and networks (think Visa and MasterCard).
Financial institutions are crucial to the world economy because they help put consumers’ money to work. They pool savings from depositors, provide loans to borrowers, and act as middlemen between investors and companies that need capital to grow and succeed. This is why regulations exist to protect consumers and ensure that borrowers and lenders don’t become victims of financial crises.
The financial services industry also includes the critical “financial market utilities” that enable other markets to function, such as stock, commodity, derivatives, and securities exchanges; clearing houses; and payment and settlement systems. Additionally, it encompasses accounting and tax filing services; credit card services and networks; currency exchange and wire transfer services; debt resolution services; and global market data providers.
There are many reasons to choose a career in financial services, including great pay and the ability to work in a highly diverse environment. Most of the businesses in this sector are heavily invested in their employees and often offer on-the-job training and continuing education opportunities. They also give new hires a lot of responsibility and freedom to make decisions, making this an ideal place to grow your skillset and learn.