The financial services industry is vast and has many career opportunities for qualified professionals. It’s also an area of expertise where most people will need help at some point, whether to manage money in a business or invest in their personal portfolio. The types of service offered within this sector include banking, payment systems, insurance and investment services.
The strength of a nation’s economy depends on the health of its financial services sector. When it is strong, people earn more, which allows them to buy more goods and services. It also provides a buffer against economic downturns. Without it, a recession could wipe out savings and lead to unmanageable debt.
Banks are the most common provider of financial services, although they are not alone in offering these products. Payment system providers are another example of a financial service, since they enable the transfer of funds from payers to recipients through credit and debit cards, bank drafts such as checks, and electronic funds transfers. In addition, banks provide investment services, including providing advice and purchasing securities (stocks and bonds) on behalf of their clients.
In addition, private equity funds, venture capital firms and angel investors are providers of investment services. These companies supply investment capital to businesses in exchange for ownership stakes or profit participation. Insurance is also a financial service, providing protection against loss or damage (e.g., a mortgage or car insurance policy) or against the risk of death (life or disability income insurance). Financial services companies use Salesforce Sales Cloud to build client relationships, drive financial outcomes and achieve their business goals.