In the free enterprise system, financial institutions include banks, credit unions, insurance companies and many more. The U.S. Federal Reserve System oversees much of the nation's financial market and has helped to stabilize the U.S. economy over time. These institutions provide many different investing opportunities, from bank accounts to bonds to stocks. Each of these financial instruments offers a different degree of risk and possible reward.
How does money serve the needs of our society?
How has the American banking system changed to meet new challenges?
How is the Federal Reserve System organized?
What banking services do financial institutions provide?
What are the benefits and risks of saving and investing?
Why are bonds bought and sold?
How does the stock market work?
How well do financial institutions serve our needs?