Commercial banks are financial institutions that provide a range of financial services to individuals, businesses, and organizations. These services include accepting deposits, making loans, and providing payment and other financial services to customers. In the modern world, commercial banks have evolved and now play a number of important roles in the economy.
One of the main functions of commercial banks is to act as intermediaries in the financial system. They facilitate the flow of money between savers and borrowers by accepting deposits from savers and using these deposits to make loans to borrowers. This helps to match those who have excess funds with those who need funds, and helps to channel savings into productive investments.
Another important function of commercial banks is to provide a safe and convenient place for people to store their money. By accepting deposits and providing account services such as checking and savings accounts, commercial banks allow people to save their money in a secure place and have easy access to it when they need it.
Commercial banks also play a key role in the payments system. They issue debit and credit cards, which allow customers to make electronic payments and withdraw cash from ATMs. They also process electronic payment transactions, such as those made with online banking or mobile apps. This makes it easier for people to make and receive payments and helps to facilitate commerce.
In addition to these traditional functions, commercial banks are also increasingly involved in other activities such as underwriting and trading securities, providing financial advice and investment services, and engaging in risk management activities. These activities allow banks to diversify their revenue streams and help to make them more resilient to economic downturns.
Overall, the modern functions of commercial banks are diverse and far-reaching. They play a vital role in the financial system and the economy, and are an important source of financial services for individuals, businesses, and organizations.