The Financial Services Industry
The financial services industry provides a wide range of economic services. It includes companies such as banks and credit-card companies. The industries involved in financial services range widely in type and size. They provide services to individuals and businesses, and help them make decisions regarding their financial security. The following is a brief overview of some of the major industries involved in financial services.
Fintech
Financial institutions are investing heavily in fintech startups. Over the past five years, the Commonwealth Bank alone invested AUD 379 million in a firm called Klarna, which offers buy now, pay later options. While some banks are wary of partnering with fintech startups, others are willing to do so. In Australia, for instance, NAB recently announced that it would purchase neobank for AUD 86 400. The deal comes as NAB struggles to increase market share for its UBank offering.
Insurance
Insurance is a part of the financial services industry and offers a range of protections for both individuals and companies. It protects against death and injury, property loss, liability, and lawsuits. There are many types of insurance, including life and health insurance. Some companies also offer annuities. In addition, reinsurers provide insurance to other companies and individuals to protect them from catastrophic losses.
Investment banks
Investment banks are financial service providers, offering securities trading, market-making, and advice to institutions. The front office is responsible for generating revenue and engaging in direct client interaction. The middle office helps facilitate those processes by providing support services, including risk management, treasury, and accounting. The back office focuses on compliance, information technology, and human resources.
Credit unions
Credit unions offer a variety of financial services, including consumer loans and business loans. While many credit unions do not offer mortgages, their consumer loans cover a wide range of financial needs. Examples of consumer loans include credit cards, loans for vehicles, and personal debt consolidation. Additionally, some credit unions offer holiday promotional loans.
Payments networks
Payments networks are systems that allow financial institutions and consumers to send and receive money. They connect banks and other financial institutions to allow the transfer of funds. They also manage the rules and standards for transferring funds. Some common payment networks include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, and JCB.
Payment systems
Payment systems are an important part of the financial services industry. They allow consumers and businesses to easily transfer money. They are also a source of revenue for financial organizations. The growth of these systems also creates new markets for technology providers.
Payment systems regulators
In the United Kingdom, the Payment Systems Regulator Limited is the economic regulator of the payment systems industry. Its purpose is to protect the public from shady operators and help ensure the fair and secure transaction of money.