Financial services are a huge part of the economy. They provide loans and mortgages to people, help businesses grow and expand, and offer insurance policies to protect people’s property and lives. They also include critical financial utilities such as stock exchanges, clearing houses, and real-time gross settlement systems. This sector comprises thousands of depository institutions, providers of investment products, insurers, credit and financing organizations, and more.
Financial service professionals are essential to the health of our economy and the well-being of our citizens. The industry includes a wide range of jobs, from traditional banking and credit unions to fintech startups and new digital payment options. This is a highly competitive industry where your professional skills and networks are important to landing the right job. If you’re interested in a career in financial services, it’s best to start by building your education and experience. This is especially true for roles such as financial advisor and investment portfolio manager.
There are many different types of financial services, but the most common ones include:
Banks are at the core of the financial services industry, acting as middlemen between depositors and borrowers. They collect deposits from the public, pool them together, and then lend money to individuals and businesses who need it. In addition, banks often offer other financial services like cashing checks and issuing credit cards.
Other financial services are:
Investment firms help businesses raise money for growth and expansion by underwriting debt or equity. They may also work on more complicated financial transactions such as mergers and acquisitions. Insurance companies sell insurance policies to protect against unforeseen events and liabilities. They also provide advisory services to clients on wealth management, retirement planning, and tax planning.
With the rise of new technologies, it’s becoming easier and more convenient to access and use financial services. For example, big tech companies like Apple and Amazon have jumped into the market and are offering financial services through their platforms. These new players are challenging existing banks by offering a variety of digital and mobile financial services.
Regulatory agencies are responsible for overseeing the operations of financial services companies and protecting consumer interests. They ensure that financial institutions follow regulations, uphold transparency, and treat their customers fairly. In the United States, two key regulatory agencies are the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency.
Whether you’re working in an established bank or a startup, you can find a role that suits your skills and ambitions in the financial services sector. To get started, you can pursue a bachelor’s degree in finance, business, or economics, and focus your studies on the areas that interest you most. You can also consider pursuing an MBA with a concentration in finance or data analytics to further develop your skills and credentials. Then, take advantage of internships and entry-level jobs to gain hands-on experience in the industry. This will give you a leg up when it comes time to apply for jobs and begin your career.