Financial services is a term that describes economic activities provided by the finance industry. It encompasses a broad range of businesses, including banks, credit-card companies, and credit unions. These companies provide a range of services that help people manage their finances. Financial services companies may also offer insurance or investment advice.
Investment banking
Investment banking is a branch of finance that involves the financial transactions of companies. It is categorized by product and industry coverage groups. The product coverage groups focus on specific deal types, while industry groups are more specialized. Product groups include mergers and acquisitions, leveraged finance, public finance, asset finance, and leasing.
Insurance
Insurance is a subsector of the financial services industry, and involves a variety of roles. These services protect individuals and businesses from losses due to injuries and property damage, liability, lawsuits, and other risks. Insurance agents work on behalf of insurance carriers, while brokers represent the insured. Brokers shop for and purchase insurance policies from a variety of insurance companies. Another type of insurance professional is the underwriter, who assesses the risk of insuring clients. Underwriters also advise investment banks on risks associated with loan portfolios. Underwriters are also involved in reinsurance, which is used to protect insurers from catastrophic losses.
Payments
Payments in financial services are often an overlooked touchpoint for brand marketers, but they are important to a successful customer conversion. Increasingly, new technologies are reshaping how we make purchases and perform basic banking activities. By improving the customer experience during payments, brand marketers can maximize their impact and increase their bottom line.
Hedge funds
Disclosure of hedge fund holdings is a key component of the investor protection standard. The disclosure of hedge fund holdings will help investors understand the risks involved and make more informed decisions. Disclosure will also improve market discipline. Investors have a strong incentive to avoid risky investments.
Payment recovery services
Consumers should be wary of debt collection agencies that harass them with repeated phone calls. One consumer in Maryland, contacted by Complete Payment Recovery Services, claims to have received up to three to four calls every day. He reports hearing a recorded message each time he answers the phone, and that he never received any validation package for his debt.
Retail banking
Retail banking encompasses a variety of account types and services. These include credit cards, investment accounts, and retirement accounts. In addition, many retail banks offer a variety of loan accounts, including mortgages, car loans, and home equity loans. They also offer personal loans and business loans.
Commercial banking
Commercial banks offer a range of financial services to businesses. These services range from processing customer payments to securing against fraudulent transactions. They also provide currency exchange services and lockbox services so that customers can send money directly to a business account. In addition, they can provide professional services, such as checking and depositing checks, and can pay bills and insurance premiums.