When you hear the phrase “financial services,” you probably think of banks, brokers and mortgage lenders. But the industry is much broader than that. It includes everything from debt resolution companies to global payment service providers (like Visa and MasterCard) to credit card networks. It also covers investment banking and other firms that help businesses raise money. It even encompasses the securities market, which is a central component of most countries’ economies.

When the financial services sector is strong, people earn more. This gives them the confidence and purchasing power to buy more goods and services. When consumers spend more, it increases demand for products and services, which in turn boosts production and encourages savings. When these flows of money occur, a nation’s economy thrives. But a weak financial services sector can lead to economic turmoil.

A career in the industry requires a person to be intelligent, quick-thinking and willing to work hard. People in this industry often develop excellent interpersonal skills that they can use throughout their careers, regardless of the type of role they hold. However, working in this area of the business world can be stressful, and it’s not uncommon for people to work 16 or 20 hours a day. Moreover, people in this field must be aware that many jobs are highly regulated, which may limit their creativity. Still, if you’re interested in a job in this sector, it’s worth exploring the options available to you.