When you hear the term Financial services, you may think of banks, brokers and mortgage lenders, but there’s much more to this industry than that. It includes everything that touches money, from small community banks to Wall Street and beyond. It impacts not only individuals but also large companies and nonprofits, as well as the government. The industry is constantly changing, as companies merge and reform. And it is growing, as new technologies and innovations make it easier than ever to borrow, invest and save.
The Financial services industry is not just about transferring money, but also about managing it and helping people manage their debts and finances better. It is a massive, interconnected sector that plays a crucial role in the economy and is often viewed as an extragovernmental body with considerable clout. This clout can be controversial, as seen in the Occupy Wall Street civil protest movement of 2011.
Many people have misconceptions about what Financial services are, believing it only encompasses banking and investing, but the industry is much broader than that. For example, a credit union is a type of financial service that offers checking accounts, savings accounts and loans to members. Other types of financial services include debt resolution, which helps individuals who are in too much debt negotiate with creditors to pay less than they owe, and payment recovery, which is an assistance program for businesses that have made duplicate payments to vendors or have otherwise accidentally paid more than they should have.
Regulatory bodies are an essential part of the Financial services industry, and they are in place to protect consumers, ensure transparency, and uphold fairness in the marketplace. Examples of these regulators include the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency.
Other parts of the Financial services industry are asset management, which helps clients manage their investments with professionals who research and analyze investment options. Brokerage services are another important part of this industry, and they can include investment consulting, as well. Private banking is a type of financial service that offers exclusive bank accounts for high-net-worth individuals.
Getting a job in the Financial services industry requires both a strong network and some serious skill sets. Luckily, this is an industry that rewards merit over tenure, which makes it easier for ambitious professionals to advance quickly. Also, many firms are heavily invested in professional development and offer on-the-job training to help their employees become experts in the field. This makes the industry an attractive option for younger generations who are eager to work hard and learn as they go. For these reasons, it is a great option for those who are looking to make a career in finance. And don’t be afraid to start small: Many internships and entry-level positions are available at many of these companies. This gives you the opportunity to build your skillset while getting a feel for the company and the industry before making a full-time commitment.