Investing, insurance, banking, and brokerage are all examples of financial services. All are essential parts of modern life. However, they all are in dire need of a digital transformation. As a result, it’s important for the financial services industry to know how to approach this.
Insurance
Despite the name, the financial services industry does not only provide loans and investment services, but also offers a wide array of insurance and related services to protect consumers, businesses and communities from the perils of life, work and play. Some of the more notable offerings include the usual slew of life insurance policies, retirement plans and health insurance.
The financial services industry has long been dominated by banks and insurers, but there are a host of new entrants to the ring. These include insurance companies and asset management firms, such as hedge funds and mutual funds.
Banking
Traditionally, banks have been a go-between for depositors and borrowers. They protect cash from theft or natural disasters, and they turn a profit by charging interest rates on loans. Banks also offer a variety of services to help people grow their wealth, including savings accounts, high-yield savings accounts, certificates of deposit, individual retirement accounts, and credit union memberships.
The banking industry has never been more competitive. New technologies and regulation have changed the role of banks. They must balance risk management with operational efficiency and customer experience.
Investing
Investing in financial services can be a lucrative endeavor. But it also requires asking a lot of tough questions. You must be able to identify the sub-sectors under-served by traditional providers. You also must be able to identify the fastest-growing parts of the industry.
The recent global economic recession wreaked havoc on the financial services industry. However, as the world recovers, private equity is again making investments in financial services targets. These investments typically focus on consolidation and international expansion.
Brokers
Increasingly, people are choosing brokers for investment advice. This is because they need to feel confident that they are receiving quality advice, without the risk of conflict.
Many brokers offer fee-based investment products, and are required to register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as investment advisers. They may also offer services to high net worth clients.
A broker’s primary role is to act as a middleman between an investor and the securities exchange. They will execute orders for clients, and may also provide research and market intelligence. In addition, brokers may be involved in the settlement process. This includes processing the buyer’s payment for water, delivering shares to the buyer, and holding the buyer’s funds in an escrow account until the settlement occurs.
Investment banks
Generally, investment banks provide advice on raising money and helping companies access the capital market. They do this by acting as brokers, dealers, and market makers. Investment banks also provide investment advice to clients, including companies, governments, and institutions. The banks are responsible for arranging mergers and acquisitions, facilitating restructurings, and managing the sale of securities. They earn commissions by working for clients and selling investment securities.
Digital transformation
Almost all financial services organizations have adopted some form of digital transformation. One of the more prominent initiatives includes improving customer experience, though this is only one of the top three short-term goals. Many organizations also focus on reducing operational inefficiency.
In the long term, most organizations expect to see significant returns on their digital investments. However, there is a lot to think about. The most important element of digital transformation is customer data. By using this data to develop new products, financial institutions can deliver unique digital experiences.