The financial services industry is a powerful economic force and the backbone of our country’s economy. It provides the primary, secondary and tertiary sectors with the funding needed to support and grow their activities.

People who work in the financial services industry are not only responsible for providing individuals with essential tools like credit cards, mortgages and checking accounts, but also help the economy by investing money in projects that improve productivity and create jobs. There are a wide variety of career options for people interested in working in financial services, and the pay is often excellent.

When it comes to working in the financial services industry, it’s important to thoroughly research each option to find out if it’s the right fit for you. This includes looking at different companies, the benefits and perks of each, and their work environment. It’s not uncommon for employees in the financial services industry to work 16-20 hours per day, so finding a good balance between work and life is key.

In the past, it was easy to distinguish between a bank, a broker and a mortgage lender, but the lines have become blurred as the market evolves and new players enter the scene. Today, financial services companies include everything from debt resolution to global payment providers such as Visa and Mastercard, and even the exchanges that facilitate stock, derivative and commodity trades. The financial services industry is a huge and varied segment of the economy that provides individuals, small businesses, large corporations and even the government with vital resources.