Apr
07
2025
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What Are Emerging Markets?

By | Financial Independence, Growing Wealth, invest, Investing, Terminology | Comments Off on What Are Emerging Markets?

Emerging markets or emerging market economies (EMEs) are in the process of achieving the building blocks of developed nations: they’re establishing regulatory bodies, creating infrastructure, fostering political stability, and supporting mature financial markets. But many emerging markets still face challenges that developed market countries have overcome, and that contributes to potential instability.

To further answer the question, “What are emerging markets?”, it helps to understand developed markets.

Developed economies have higher standards of living and per-capita income, strong infrastructure, stable political systems, and mature capital markets. The U.S., Europe, U.K, and Japan are among the biggest developed nations.

Because these economies wield so much power globally, many investors don’t realize that, in truth, emerging markets make up the majority of the global economy.

India, China, and Brazil are a few of the larger countries that fall into the emerging markets category. Some emerging market economies, like these three, are also key global players — and investors may benefit by understanding the opportunities emerging markets present.

What is an Emerging Market?

In essence, an emerging market refers to an economy that can become a developed, advanced economy soon. And because an emerging market may be a rapidly growing one, it may offer investment potential in certain sectors.

Internationally focused investors tend to see these countries as potential sources of growth because their economies can resemble an established yet still-young startup company. The infrastructure and blueprint for success have been laid out, but things need to evolve before the economy can truly take off and ultimately mature. At the same time, owing to the challenges emerging market economies often face, there are also potential risks when investing in emerging markets.

Investors might bear the brunt of political turmoil, local infrastructure hurdles, a volatile home currency and illiquid capital markets (if certain enterprises are state-run or otherwise privately held, for example).


💡 Quick Tip: Investment fees are assessed in different ways, including trading costs, account management fees, and possibly broker commissions. When you set up an investment account, be sure to get the exact breakdown of your “all-in costs” so you know what you’re paying.

Emerging Market Examples

What constitutes an emerging market economy is somewhat fluid, and the list can vary depending on the source. Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) classifies 24 countries as emerging; Dow Jones also classifies 24 as emerging. There is some overlap between lists, and some countries may be added or removed as their status changes. Greece, for example, is no longer considered a developed market but an emerging one.

India is one of the world’s biggest emerging economies. Increasingly, though, some investors see India as pushing the bounds of its emerging market status.

China

China is the second-largest economy globally by gross domestic product (GDP). It has a large manufacturing base, plenty of technological innovation, and the largest population of any country in the world.

Yet China still has a few characteristics typical of an emerging market. For example, the gross national income per capita falls below the threshold established by the World Bank for a developed country: about $12,600 per year versus the higher standard of above $13,200 per year. With its Communist-led political system, China has embraced many aspects of capitalism in its economy but investors may experience some turbulence related to government laws and policy changes. The Renminbi, China’s official currency, has a history of volatility. And finally, post-Covid, China’s economy has lagged.

India

India is another big global economy, and it’s considered among the top 10 richest countries in the world, yet India still has a low per-capita income that is typical of an emerging market and poverty is widespread.

At the same time, India was ranked as being among the more advanced emerging markets, thanks to its robust financial system, growing foreign investment, and strong industrials, especially in telecommunication and technology.

Characteristics of an Emerging Market Economy

As noted above, there isn’t a single definition of an emerging market, but there are some markers that distinguish these economies from developed nations.

Fast-Paced Growth

An emerging market economy is often in a state of rapid expansion. There is perhaps no better time to be invested in the growth of a country than when it enters this phase.

At this point, an emerging market has laid much of the groundwork necessary for becoming a developed nation. Capital markets and regulatory bodies have been established, personal incomes are rising, innovation is flourishing, and GDP is climbing.

Lower Per-Capita Income

The World Bank keeps a record of the gross national income (GNI) of many countries. For the fiscal year of 2022, lower-middle-income economies are defined as having GNI per capita of between $1,136 and $4,465 per year. At the same time, upper-middle-income economies are defined as having GNI per capita between $4,466 and $13,845. (By way of contrast, the U.S. is considered a high-income economy, with a GNI of $76,370.)

The vast majority of countries that are considered emerging markets fall into the lower-middle and upper-middle-income ranges. For example, India, Pakistan, and the Philippines are lower-middle-income, while China, Brazil, and Mexico are upper-middle-income. Thus, all these countries are referred to as emerging markets despite the considerable differences in their economic progression.

Political and Economic Instability

For most EMEs, volatility is par for the course. Risk and volatility tend to go hand in hand, and both are common among emerging market investments.

Emerging economies can be rife with internal conflicts, political turmoil, and economic upheaval. Some of these countries might see revolutions, political coups, or become targets of sanctions by more powerful developed nations.

Any one of these factors can have an immediate impact on financial markets and the performance of various sectors. Investors need to know the lay of the land when considering which EMEs to invest in.

Infrastructure and Climate

While some EMEs have well-developed infrastructure, many are a mix of sophisticated cities and rural regions that lack technology, services and basic amenities like reliable transportation. This lack of infrastructure can leave emerging markets especially vulnerable to any kind of crisis, whether political or from a natural disaster.

For example, if a country relies on agricultural exports for a significant portion of its trade, a tsunami, hurricane, or earthquake could derail related commerce.

On the other hand, climate challenges may also present investment opportunities that are worth considering.

Recommended: 27 Potential Ways to Invest in a Carbon-free Future

Currency Crises

The value of a country’s currency is an important factor to keep in mind when investing in emerging markets.

Sometimes it can look like stock prices are soaring, but that might not be the case if the currency is declining.

If a stock goes up by 50% in a month, but the national currency declines by 90% during the same period, investors could see a net loss, although they might not recognize it as such until converting gains to their own native currency.

Heavy Reliance on Exports

Emerging market economies tend to rely heavily on exports. That means their economies depend in large part on selling goods and services to other countries.

A developed nation might house all the needs of production within its own shores while also being home to a population with the income necessary to purchase those goods and services. Developing countries, however, must export the bulk of what they create.

Emerging Economies’ Impact on Local Politics vs. Global Economy

Emerging economies play a significant role in the growth of the global economy, accounting for about 50% of the world’s economic growth. Moreover, it’s predicted that by 2050 three countries will have the biggest economies: the U.S., China, and India, with only one currently being a developed economy.

But, while emerging markets help fuel global growth, some of those with higher growth opportunities also come with turbulent political situations.

As an investor, the political climate of emerging market investments can pose serious risks. Although there is potential for higher returns, especially in EMEs that are in a growth phase, investors need to consider the potential downside. For example, Thailand and South Korea are emerging economies with high growth potential, but there is also a lot of political unrest in these regions.


💡 Quick Tip: Are self directed brokerage accounts cost efficient? They can be, because they offer the convenience of being able to buy stocks online without using a traditional full-service broker (and the typical broker fees).

Pros and Cons of Investing in Emerging Markets

Let’s recap some of the pros and cons associated with EME investments.

Pros

•  High-profit potential: Selecting the right investments in EMEs at the right time may result in returns that might be greater than most other investments. Rapidly growing economies could provide ample opportunity for profits. But as noted above, it’s impossible to guarantee the timing of any investment.

•  Global diversification: Investing in EMEs provides a chance to hold assets that go beyond the borders of an investor’s home country. So even if an unforeseen event should happen that contributes to slower domestic growth, it’s possible that investments elsewhere could perform well and provide some balance.

Cons

•  High volatility: As a general rule, investments with higher liquidity and market capitalization tend to be less volatile because it takes significant capital inflows or outflows to move their prices.

EMEs tend to have smaller capital markets combined with ongoing challenges, making them vulnerable to volatility.

•  High risk: With high volatility and uncertainty comes higher risk. What’s more, that risk can’t always be quantified. A situation might be even more unpredictable than it seems if factors coincide (e.g. a drought plus political instability).

All investments carry risk, but EMEs bring with them a host of fresh variables that can twist and turn in unexpected ways.

•  Low accessibility: While liquid capital markets are a characteristic of emerging markets, that liquidity still doesn’t match up to that of developed economies.

It may be necessary to consult with an investment advisor or pursue other means of deploying capital that may be undesirable to some investors.

Why Invest in Emerging Markets?

Emerging markets are generally thought of as high-risk, high-reward investments.

They are also yet another way to diversify an investment portfolio. Having all of your portfolio invested in the assets of a single country puts you at the mercy of that country’s circumstances. If something goes wrong, like social unrest, a currency crisis, or widespread natural disasters, that might impact your investments.

Being invested in multiple countries can help mitigate the risk of something unexpected happening to any single economy.

The returns from emerging markets might also exceed those found elsewhere. If investors can capitalize on the high rate of growth in an emerging market at the right time and avoid any of the potential mishaps, they could stand to profit. Of course timing any market, let alone a more complex and potentially volatile emerging market, may not be a winning strategy.

Recommended: Pros & Cons of Global Investments

The Takeaway

While developed nations like the U.S. and Europe and Japan regularly make headlines as global powerhouses, emerging market countries actually make up the majority of the world’s economy — and possibly, some very exciting opportunities for investors.

China and India are two of the biggest emerging markets, and not because of their vast populations. They both have maturing financial markets and strong industrial sectors and a great deal of foreign investment. And like other emerging markets, these countries have seen rapid growth in certain sectors (e.g. technology).

Despite their economic stature, though, both countries still face challenges common to many emerging economies, including political turbulence, currency fluctuations and low per-capita income.

It’s factors like these that can contribute to the risks of investing in emerging markets. And yet, emerging markets may also present unique investment opportunities owing to the fact that they are growing rapidly.

Emerging market exchange-traded funds (ETFs) might invest in different assets within a single country or spread their investments throughout multiple countries. Bonds can also play a role in an emerging market portfolio. Many countries with developing economies have used the issuance of new debt to borrow money to build out their infrastructure. That means some emerging economies could offer bonds with attractive yields. But investors need to carefully weigh the potential risks.

Ready to invest in your goals? It’s easy to get started when you open an investment account with SoFi Invest. You can invest in stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), mutual funds, alternative funds, and more. SoFi doesn’t charge commissions, but other fees apply (full fee disclosure here).


Invest with as little as $5 with a SoFi Active Investing account.

About the author

Ashley Kilroy

Ashley Kilroy

Ashley Kilroy is a seasoned personal finance writer with 15 years of experience simplifying complex concepts for individuals seeking financial security. Her expertise has shined through in well-known publications like Rolling Stone, Forbes, SmartAsset, and Money Talks News. Read full bio.


SoFi Invest®

INVESTMENTS ARE NOT FDIC INSURED • ARE NOT BANK GUARANTEED • MAY LOSE VALUE

SoFi Invest encompasses two distinct companies, with various products and services offered to investors as described below: Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of these platforms.
1) Automated Investing and advisory services are provided by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser (“SoFi Wealth“). Brokerage services are provided to SoFi Wealth LLC by SoFi Securities LLC.
2) Active Investing and brokerage services are provided by SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA (www.finra.org)/SIPC(www.sipc.org). Clearing and custody of all securities are provided by APEX Clearing Corporation.
For additional disclosures related to the SoFi Invest platforms described above please visit SoFi.com/legal.
Neither the Investment Advisor Representatives of SoFi Wealth, nor the Registered Representatives of SoFi Securities are compensated for the sale of any product or service sold through any SoFi Invest platform.
For a full listing of the fees associated with Sofi Invest please view our fee schedule.


Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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Apr
07
2025

A Comprehensive Guide to Treasury Bills (T-Bills)

By | Financial Topics, Growing Wealth, invest, Investing, Terminology | Comments Off on A Comprehensive Guide to Treasury Bills (T-Bills)

U.S. government-backed securities like Treasury bills (T-bills) provide a way to invest with minimal risk. These debt instruments are one of several different types of Treasury securities including Treasury notes (T-notes) and Treasury bonds (T-bonds).

Unlike other treasuries, however, T-bills don’t pay interest. Rather, investors buy T-bills at a discount to par (the face value).

Investors looking for a low-risk investment with a short time horizon and a modest return may find T-bills an attractive investment. T-bills have minimal default risk and maturities of a year or less. But Treasury bill rates are typically lower than those of some other investments.

Key Points

•   T-bills are short-term investments that offer a guaranteed rate of return.

•   Investors don’t receive coupon, or interest, payments. The return is the discount rate.

•   T-bills have a near-zero risk of default.

•   Investors can buy T-bills directly from TreasuryDirect.gov, or on the secondary market using a brokerage account.

What Is a Treasury Bill (T-Bill)?

Treasury bills are debt instruments issued by the U.S. government. They are short-term securities and are issued with maturity dates ranging from 4 weeks to one year. It may be possible to buy T-bills on the secondary market with maturities as short as a few days.

How Treasury Bills Work

Essentially, when an individual buys a T-bill, they are lending money to the U.S. government. In general, T-bills are considered very low risk, since they are backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government, which has never defaulted on its debts.

T-bills are sold at a discount to their par, or face value. They are essentially zero-coupon bonds. They don’t pay interest, unlike other types of Treasuries (and coupon bonds); rather the difference between the discount price and the face value is like an interest payment.

T-Bill Purchase Example

While all securities have a face value, also known as the par value, typically investors purchase Treasury bills at a discount to par. Then, when the T-bill matures, investors receive the full face value amount. So, if they purchased a treasury bill for less than it was worth, they would receive a greater amount when it matures.

Example

Suppose an investor purchases a 52-week T-bill for $4,500 with a par value of $5,000, a 5% discount. Since the government promises to repay the full value of the T-bill when it expires, the investors will receive $5,000 at maturity, and realize a profit or yield of $500.

In the example above, the discount rate of the T-bill is 5% — and that is also the yield. But examples aside, the actual 52-week Treasury bill rate, as of Feb. 1, 2024, is 4.46%.

Recommended: How to Buy Treasury Bills, Bonds, and Notes

T-Bill Maturities

Understanding the maturity date of a T-bill is important. This is the length of time you’ll hold the bill before you redeem it for the full face value. Maturity dates affect the discount rate, with longer maturities generally offering a higher discount/return, but interest rates will influence the discount.

The government issues T-bills at regular auctions, in four-, eight-, 13-, 17-, 26-, and 52-week terms, in increments ranging from $100 to $10 million. The minimum T-bill purchase from TreasuryDirect.gov is $100.

Some investors may create ladders (similar to bond ladders), which allow them to roll their T-bills at maturity into more T-bills. Although T-bill rates are fixed, and because their maturities are so short, they don’t have much sensitivity to interest rate fluctuations.

💡 Quick Tip: Look for an online brokerage with low trading commissions as well as no account minimum. Higher fees can cut into investment returns over time.

How to Purchase T-Bills

You can purchase T-bills at regular government auctions on TreasuryDirect, or on the secondary market, from your brokerage account.

Buying From Treasury Direct

Noncompetitive bids: With a noncompetitive bill, the investor accepts the discount prices that were established at the Treasuries auction, which are an average of the bids submitted.

Since the investor will receive the full value of the T-bill when the term expires, some investors often favor this simple technique of investing in T-bills.

Competitive bid: With a competitive bid, all investors propose the discount rate they are prepared to pay for a given T-bill. The lowest discount rate offers are selected first. If investors don’t propose enough low bids to complete the entire order, the auction will move onto the next lowest bid and so on until the entire order is filled.

Buying and Selling on the Secondary Market

Another option is to purchase or sell T-bills on the secondary market, using a standard brokerage account.

Investors can also trade exchange-traded funds (ETFs) or mutual funds that may include T-bills that were released in the past.

Redemption and Interest Earnings on T-Bills

As noted above, although T-bills are debt instruments and an investor’s loan is repaid “with interest,” T-Bills don’t have a coupon payment the way some bonds do. Rather, investors buy T-bills at a discount, and the difference between the lower purchase price and the higher face value is effectively the interest payment when the T-bill matures.

When a T-bill matures, investors can redeem it for cash at Treasury.gov.

T-bill purchases and redemptions are now fully digital. Paper T-bills are no longer available.

Tax Implications for T-Bill Investors

Gains from all Treasuries, including T-bills, are taxed at the federal level; i.e. they are taxed as income on your federal income tax return.

Treasury gains are exempt from state and local income tax.

Comparing T-Bills to Treasury Notes and Bonds

The U.S. government offers a number of debt instruments, including Treasury Bills, Notes, and Bonds. The difference between them is their maturity dates, which can also affect interest rates and discount rates.

Treasury Notes

Investors can purchase Treasury notes (or T-notes) in quantities of $1,000 and with terms ranging from two to 10 years. Treasury notes pay interest, known as coupon payments, bi-annually.

Treasury Bonds

Out of all Treasury securities, Treasury bonds have the most extended maturity terms: up to 30 years. Like T-notes, Treasury bonds pay interest every six months. And when the bond matures the entire value of the bond is repaid.

Recommended: How to Buy Bonds: A Guide for Beginners

Considerations When Investing in T-Bills

Like any other investments, it’s important to understand how T-bills work, the pros and cons, and how they can fit into your portfolio.

What Influences T-Bill Prices in the Market?

Although any T-bill you buy offers a guaranteed yield at maturity, because T-bills are short-term debt the discount rates (and therefore the yield) can fluctuate depending on a number of factors, including market conditions, interest rates, and inflation.

The Role of Maturity Dates and Market Risk

Generally, the longer the maturity date of the bill, the higher the returns. But if interest rates are predicted to rise over time, that could make existing T-bills less desirable, which could affect their price on the secondary market. It’s possible, then, that an investor could sell a T-bill for lower than what they paid for it.

Federal Reserve Policies and Inflation Concerns

It’s also important to consider the role of the Federal Reserve Bank, which sets the federal funds target rate, for overnight lending between banks. When the fed funds rate is lower, banks have more money to lend, but when it’s higher there’s less money circulating.

Thus the fed funds rate has an impact on the cost of lending across the board, which impacts inflation, purchasing power — and T-bill rates and prices as well. As described, T-bill rates are fixed, so as interest rates rise, the price of T-bills drops because they become less desirable.

By the same token, when the Fed lowers interest rates that tends to favor T-bills. Investors buy up the higher-yield bills, driving up prices on the secondary market.

How Can Investors Decide on Maturity Terms?

Bear in mind that because the maturity terms of T-bills are relatively short — they’re issued with six terms (four, six, 13, 17, 26 and 52 weeks) — it’s possible to redeem the T-bills you buy relatively quickly.

T-bill rates vary according to their maturity, so that will influence which term will work for you.

💡 Quick Tip: It’s smart to invest in a range of assets so that you’re not overly reliant on any one company or market to do well. For example, by investing in different sectors you can add diversification to your portfolio, which may help mitigate some risk factors over time.

Advantages and Disadvantages of T-Bills

Advantages of T-Bills

•   They are a low-risk investment. Since they are backed in the full faith of the U.S. government, there is a slim to none chance of default.

•   They have a low barrier to entry. In other words, investors who don’t have a lot of money to invest can invest a small amount of money while earning a return, starting at $100.

•   They can help diversify a portfolio. Diversifying a portfolio helps investors minimize risk exposure by spreading funds across various investment opportunities of varying risks and potential returns.

Disadvantages of T-Bills

•   Low yield. T-bills provide a lower yield compared to other higher-yield bonds or investments such as stocks. So, for investors looking for higher yields, Treasury bills might not be the way to go.

•   Inflation risk exposure. T-bills are exposed to risks such as inflation. If the inflation rate is 4% and a T-bill has a discount rate of 2%, for example, it wouldn’t make sense to invest in T-bills—the inflation exceeds the return an investor would receive, and they would lose money on the investment.

Using Treasury Bills to Diversify

Investing all of one’s money into one asset class leaves an investor exposed to a higher rate of risk of loss. To mitigate risk, investors may turn to diversification as an investing strategy.

With diversification, investors place their money in an assortment of investments — from stocks and bonds to real estate and alternative investments — rather than placing all of their money in one investment. With more sophisticated diversification, investors can diversify within each asset class and sector to truly ensure all investments are spread out.

For example, to reduce the risk of economic uncertainty that tends to impact stocks, investors may choose to invest in the U.S. Treasury securities, such as mutual funds that carry T-bills, to offset these stocks’ potentially negative performance. Since the U.S. Treasuries tend to perform well in such environments, they may help minimize an investor’s loss from stocks not performing.

The Takeaway

Treasury bills are one investment opportunity in which an investor is basically lending money to the government for the short term. While the return on T-bills may be lower than the typical return on other investments, the risk is also much lower, as the US government backs these bills.

Ready to invest in your goals? It’s easy to get started when you open an investment account with SoFi Invest. You can invest in stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), mutual funds, alternative funds, and more. SoFi doesn’t charge commissions, but other fees apply (full fee disclosure here).


Invest with as little as $5 with a SoFi Active Investing account.

About the author

Ashley Kilroy

Ashley Kilroy

Ashley Kilroy is a seasoned personal finance writer with 15 years of experience simplifying complex concepts for individuals seeking financial security. Her expertise has shined through in well-known publications like Rolling Stone, Forbes, SmartAsset, and Money Talks News. Read full bio.

Photo credit: iStock/Marco VDM


SoFi Invest®

INVESTMENTS ARE NOT FDIC INSURED • ARE NOT BANK GUARANTEED • MAY LOSE VALUE

SoFi Invest encompasses two distinct companies, with various products and services offered to investors as described below: Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of these platforms.
1) Automated Investing and advisory services are provided by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser (“SoFi Wealth“). Brokerage services are provided to SoFi Wealth LLC by SoFi Securities LLC.
2) Active Investing and brokerage services are provided by SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA (www.finra.org)/SIPC(www.sipc.org). Clearing and custody of all securities are provided by APEX Clearing Corporation.
For additional disclosures related to the SoFi Invest platforms described above please visit SoFi.com/legal.
Neither the Investment Advisor Representatives of SoFi Wealth, nor the Registered Representatives of SoFi Securities are compensated for the sale of any product or service sold through any SoFi Invest platform.
For a full listing of the fees associated with Sofi Invest please view our fee schedule.


Investment Risk: Diversification can help reduce some investment risk. It cannot guarantee profit, or fully protect in a down market.


Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs): Investors should carefully consider the information contained in the prospectus, which contains the Fund’s investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and other relevant information. You may obtain a prospectus from the Fund company’s website or by email customer service at https://sofi.app.link/investchat. Please read the prospectus carefully prior to investing.
Shares of ETFs must be bought and sold at market price, which can vary significantly from the Fund’s net asset value (NAV). Investment returns are subject to market volatility and shares may be worth more or less their original value when redeemed. The diversification of an ETF will not protect against loss. An ETF may not achieve its stated investment objective. Rebalancing and other activities within the fund may be subject to tax consequences.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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Apr
07
2025
What Credit Score Do You Start With at 18?

What Credit Score Do You Start With at 18?

By | Credit, Financial Independence, relay | Comments Off on What Credit Score Do You Start With at 18?

It’s natural to be curious about what credit score you start with at 18. You might assume you start with the lowest possible score of 300, but that’s not how it works. Instead, your credit score doesn’t exist until you begin generating financial data.

Good credit is vital to financial independence. Establishing credit early on can help you qualify for favorable rates and terms when you need to borrow money for a car or home. Here’s what you need to know about beginning credit scores and how you can build yours.

What Is Your Starting Credit Score?

Essentially, your credit score doesn’t exist until you begin building credit. Before that, if a financial institution requests your credit history, they will find nothing. Only when you use a credit card or pay utility bills will there be something to put on your credit report.

This doesn’t mean you will start with the lowest score possible, though. Neither will you start with a high credit score, since that requires a strong credit history and proof of solid financial habits. But if you get off on the wrong foot by not paying your credit card bill on time, you may start with a lower credit score.

Usually, you need at least one or two revolving accounts that have been active for at least three to six months to begin building credit. Creditors and lenders use various credit scoring models to determine your creditworthiness. Therefore, your number may differ across different platforms. For example, your FICO® Score and VantageScore range between 300 and 850, while other models, such as your auto loan score, may go up to 900 or higher.

Track your credit score with SoFi

Check your credit score for free. Sign up and get $10.*

Recommended: What Is the Difference Between Transunion and Equifax

Breakdown of Credit Score Factors

A number of factors affect your credit score. Here are the ones you should know about.

Payment History

A key factor in determining your credit score is whether you pay your bills on time. In fact, when calculating your FICO score, 35% comes from your payment history. Because it plays a significant role in your overall score, paying your bills on time is crucial.

Credit Utilization

Your credit limit is the maximum dollar amount you can charge on a credit card. Credit bureaus determine your credit utilization by dividing your outstanding balance by your total revolving credit limits. This shows credit bureaus how much credit you are using against the total credit you have.

A good rule of thumb is to keep your credit utilization ratio under 30%, both for each credit card and overall. Maintaining a low credit card balance or paying it off monthly will help you maintain a lower credit utilization ratio. This factor accounts for 30% of your overall FICO score.

Length of Credit History

The longevity of your credit history also plays a part in calculating your credit score. Credit bureaus will look at the number of years your accounts have been open. The length of your credit history accounts for 15% of your FICO score.

Recommended: Does Net Worth Include Home Equity

Credit Mix

Credit is usually broken down into three categories: revolving credit, installment credit, and service credit. With revolving credit, creditors give you a specific credit limit to spend as you wish. You can make the minimum monthly payments or choose to pay off your credit card balance every month. If you make the minimum payment, the remaining balance will carry over to the next month until you pay off the entire balance.

Installment credit is used for auto, mortgage, and other loans. With this type of credit, the creditor establishes a fixed monthly payment you agree to pay back over a set amount of time. Demonstrating that you can handle multiple types of credit can increase your credit score.

Last, service credit is when companies like home utilities or a cell phone provider report your payment history to a credit bureau. On-time payments to these businesses can help build your credit. This accounts for 10% of your FICO score.

Recommended: Should I Sell My House Now or Wait?

New Credit Inquiries

When you apply for new credit, creditors conduct a hard inquiry. This means they assess your creditworthiness by looking at your overall credit history. New credit inquiries and new accounts account for 10% of your score. Triggering a large number of credit inquiries in a short amount of time is considered risky and will negatively impact your credit score.

What Is Insufficient Credit History?

If you don’t have any credit accounts or your credit accounts are not reported to the three major credit bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax), you may have an insufficient credit history.

Even if you establish credit but go a long time without using it or cancel your credit cards, your credit information might be removed from your credit file. In this case, you may also have an insufficient credit history.

How to Establish Credit History

Building credit might seem daunting. However, there are a few strategies to begin establishing a credit history from scratch. Here’s how.

Apply for a Secured Credit Card

Secured credit cards require applicants to put down a deposit. This deposit will usually act as your credit limit. You will still have to make monthly payments since the deposit is used as protection or collateral if you default.

A secured card will help you establish credit as long as the creditor reports to one of the three major credit bureaus. A secured credit card can act as a stepping stone to unsecured credit cards and other forms of financing in the future.

Become an Authorized User

To become an authorized user, someone needs to add you to an existing account held in their name. You will receive your own credit card, and the account history will go on your credit report.

Keep in mind, however, that since you’re not solely responsible for payments and the management of the account, this account may have less of an impact on your credit score than if you were the sole owner of the account.

Make On-time Payments

As noted above, your payment history counts as 35% of your score. Missing a payment can hurt your credit score and stay on your credit report for up to seven years. You can establish autopay to ensure you never miss a payment. However, you’ll still want to check your account monthly to ensure you weren’t overcharged.

Keep Your Credit Balances Low

Once you get a credit card, resist the temptation to run up the balance. The amount of credit you’re using plays a role in your score. It’s best to keep your balances low and use under 30% of your total credit card limit.

How to Monitor Your Credit Score

An important component of building credit is monitoring your progress. Monitoring your credit can motivate you to keep building your score. It can also help you spot problems quickly, such as missed payments. Finally, keeping tabs on your credit will let you see how specific actions impact your score so you can better understand how credit scoring works.

The Takeaway

The credit history you start with at 18 is a blank slate. Your credit score doesn’t exist until you start building credit. To begin your credit-building journey, consider opening a secured credit card or ask a family member to add you as an authorized user on their account.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

See exactly how your money comes and goes at a glance.

FAQ

Is a credit score of 720 good?

Yes, a 720 credit score is considered good. However, increasing your score by 20 points will make it a very good score and help you receive more favorable interest rates and terms.

Does credit build before 18?

It’s possible to build credit before age 18 if you’re an authorized user on an adult’s account or you have a secured credit card. Many financial products, such as loans and credit cards, require you to be 18 or older to apply. Being an authorized user can be your first opportunity to establish credit history.

How can I quickly build my credit score?

Since your credit utilization ratio significantly impacts your credit score, paying off your credit card balances and increasing your limits can help you build your credit score promptly.

About the author

Ashley Kilroy

Ashley Kilroy

Ashley Kilroy is a seasoned personal finance writer with 15 years of experience simplifying complex concepts for individuals seeking financial security. Her expertise has shined through in well-known publications like Rolling Stone, Forbes, SmartAsset, and Money Talks News. Read full bio.


Photo credit: iStock/FG Trade

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.


Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

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Apr
07
2025

Guide to Bank Reserves

By | Family Finances, Life & Career, money | Comments Off on Guide to Bank Reserves

Bank reserves refer to the amount of funds a financial institution must have on-hand at any given time. These reserves are a percentage of its total deposits set aside to fulfill withdrawal requests, and comply with regulations and can also provide a layer of trust for account holders.

Bank reserves act as assurance to depositors that there is always a certain amount of cash on deposit, so the scenario mentioned above doesn’t happen. No one wants to ever withdraw some cash and be left empty-handed. As a consumer with a bank account, it can be important to understand the role bank reserves play in the financial system and the economy.

What Are Bank Reserves?

Bank reserves are the minimum deposits held by a financial institution. The central bank of each country decides what these minimum amounts must be. For example, in the United States, the Federal Reserve determines all bank reserve requirements for U.S. financial institutions. In India, as you might guess, the Reserve Bank of India determines the bank reserves for that country’s financial institutions.

The bank reserve requirements are in place to ensure the financial institution has enough cash to meet financial obligations such as consumer withdrawals. It also ensures that financial institutions can weather historical market volatility (that is, economic ups and downs).

Bank reserve requirements are typically a percentage of the total bank deposit amounts determined by the Federal Reserve Board of Governors. Financial institutions can hold their cash reserves in a vault on their property, with the regional Federal Reserve Bank, or a combination of both. This way, the financial insulation will have enough accessible funds to support their operational needs while letting the remaining reserves earn interest at a Federal Reserve Bank.

💡 Quick Tip: Most savings accounts only earn a fraction of a percentage in interest. Not at SoFi. Our high-yield savings account can help you make meaningful progress towards your financial goals.

How Do Bank Reserves Work?

Bank reserves work to ensure that a certain amount of cash, or percentage of overall deposits, is kept in a financial institution’s vault.

Suppose you need to withdraw $5,000 to purchase a new car. You understand savings account withdrawal limits at your bank and the amount you need is within the guidelines, so you head to your local branch. When you arrive, you’re told they don’t have enough money in their vault to meet your request.

This is what life could be like without bank reserves. The thought of not being able to withdraw your own money might be upsetting, worrisome, and deeply inconvenient. To prevent this kind of situation is exactly why banks must have a certain percentage of cash on hand.

In addition to ensuring consumers have access to their money, bank reserves may also aid in keeping the economy functioning efficiently. For example, suppose a bank has $10 million in deposits, and the Federal Reserve requires 3% liquidity. In this case, the bank will need to keep $300,000 in its vault, but it can lend the remaining $9.7 million to other consumers via loans or mortgages. Consumers can use this money to buy homes and cars or even send their children to college. The interest on those loans is a way that the bank earns money and stays in business.

Bank reserves are vital in helping the economy control money supply, interest rates, and the implementation of what is known as monetary policy. When the reserve requirements change, it says a lot about the economy’s direction. For example, when reserve requirements are low, banks have more opportunity to lend since more capital is at their disposal. Thus, when the money supply is plentiful, interest rates decrease. Conversely, when reserve requirements are high, less money circulates, and interest rates rise.

During inflationary periods, the Federal Reserve may increase reserved requirements to ensure the economy doesn’t combust. Essentially, by decreasing the money supply and increasing interest rates, it can slow down the rate of investments.

Recommended: Understanding Fractional Reserve Banking

Types of Bank Reserves

There are two types of bank reserves: required reserves and excess reserves. The required reserves are the percentage of deposits the institution must have in cash holdings and deposit balances to abide by the regulations of the Federal Reserve. Excess reserves are the amount over the required reserve amount that the institution holds.

Excess reserves can provide a larger safety net for the financial institution and enhance liquidity. It can also contribute to a higher credit rating for institutions. On the other hand, excess reserves can also result in losing the opportunity to invest the funds to yield higher returns. In other words, since the extra money is sitting in cash, it will not generate the same returns it might yield by lending or investing in the market.

Recommended: What Is Quantitative Easing?

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History of Bank Reserves

Reserve requirements first came about in 1863 during the passing of the National Bank Act. This act intended to create a national banking system and currency so money could flow easily throughout the country. At this time, banks had to hold at least 25% reserves of both loans and deposits. Bank reserves were necessary to ensure financial institutions had liquidity and money could continue circulating freely throughout the nation.

But despite the efforts to establish a robust banking system, banking troubles continued. After the panic of 1907, the government intervened, and in 1913, Congress passed the Federal Reserve Act to address banking turmoil. The central bank was created to balance competing interests and foster a healthy banking system.

Initially, the Federal Reserve acted as a last resort and a liquidity grantor when the banks faced trouble. During the 1920s, the Federal Reserve’s role expanded to playing a proactive role in the economy by influencing the credit conditions of the nation.

After the Great Depression, a landmark in the history of U.S. recessions and depressions, the Banking Act of 1935 was passed to reform the structure of the Federal Reserve once again. As part of this act, the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) was born to oversee all monetary policy.

💡 Quick Tip: Don’t think too hard about your money. Automate your budgeting, saving, and spending with SoFi’s seamless and secure mobile banking app.

How the 2008 Crisis Impacted Bank Reserves

Prior to the global financial crisis of 2008, financial institutions didn’t earn interest on excess reserves held at a Federal Reserve Bank. However, after October 2008, the Federal Reserve was granted the right to pay interest to banks with excess reserves. This encourages banks to keep more of their reserves. The Board of Governors establishes the interest on reserve balances (IORB rate). As of July 2024, the IORB was 5.4%.

Then, after the recession subsided in 2009, the Federal Reserve turned its attention to reform to avoid similar economic disasters in the future.

Recommended: Federal Reserve Interest Rates, Explained

How Much Money Do Banks Need to Keep in Reserve?

Reserve requirements vary depending on the size of the financial institution. As of July 2024, reserve requirements are 0%, where they’ve been since early 2020 and the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Prior to this revision, banks with between $16.9 to $127.5 million in deposits were required to have 3% in reserves, whereas banks over this amount had to have at least 10% in bank reserves.

Recommended: Investing During a Recession

What Is Liquidity Cover Ratio (LCR)?

Bank reserve requirements aside, financial institutions want to ensure they have enough liquidity to satisfy the short-term financial obligations if an economic crisis occurs. This way, they know they will be able to weather a crisis and not face complete bankruptcy. Therefore, financial institutions use the Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) to prevent financial devastation resulting from a crisis.

The LCR helps financial institutions decide how much money they should have based on their assets and liabilities. To calculate the LCR, banks use the following formula:

(Liquid Assets / Total Cash Outflows) X 100 = LCR

Liquid assets can include cash and liquid assets that convert to cash within five business days. Cash flows include interbank loans, deposits, and 90-day maturity bonds.

The minimum LCR should be 100% or 1:1, though this can be hard to achieve. If the LCR is noticeably lower than this amount, the bank may have liquidity concerns and put the bank’s assets at risk.

The Takeaway

Financial institutions must have a certain amount of cash on hand, referred to as bank reserves. These assets are usually kept in a vault on the bank’s property or with a regional Federal Reserve Bank. These cash reserves ensure financial institutions can support consumer withdrawals and withstand a financial crisis.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.


Better banking is here with SoFi, NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Checking Account Overall.* Enjoy up to 3.80% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

Are bank reserves assets or liabilities?

Bank reserves are considered an asset since they’re an item the bank owns. Other bank assets can include loans and securities.

How are bank reserves calculated?

Bank reserve requirements are calculated as a percentage of the institution’s deposits. So, if the reserve requirement is 3% for banks with $10 million in deposits, the bank would have to hold $300,000 in its reserves.

Where do banks keep their reserves?

Financial institutions usually keep a certain amount of their cash reserves in a vault to meet operational needs. The remaining amount may be kept at Federal Reserve Banks so the balance can generate interest.

About the author

Ashley Kilroy

Ashley Kilroy

Ashley Kilroy is a seasoned personal finance writer with 15 years of experience simplifying complex concepts for individuals seeking financial security. Her expertise has shined through in well-known publications like Rolling Stone, Forbes, SmartAsset, and Money Talks News. Read full bio.


Photo credit: iStock/Diy13

SoFi members with Eligible Direct Deposit activity can earn 3.80% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Eligible Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Eligible Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below).

Although we do our best to recognize all Eligible Direct Deposits, a small number of employers, payroll providers, benefits providers, or government agencies do not designate payments as direct deposit. To ensure you're earning 3.80% APY, we encourage you to check your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit arrives. If your APY is not showing as 3.80%, contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. As long as SoFi Bank can validate those details, you will start earning 3.80% APY from the date you contact SoFi for the rest of the current 30-day Evaluation Period. You will also be eligible for 3.80% APY on future Eligible Direct Deposits, as long as SoFi Bank can validate them.

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi members with Eligible Direct Deposit are eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

As an alternative to Direct Deposit, SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 3.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant. SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits are not eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Eligible Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving an Eligible Direct Deposit or receipt of $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 3.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Eligible Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.

SoFi Bank reserves the right to grant a grace period to account holders following a change in Eligible Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits activity before adjusting rates. If SoFi Bank grants you a grace period, the dates for such grace period will be reflected on the APY Details page of your account. If SoFi Bank determines that you did not have Eligible Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits during the current 30-day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, then you will begin earning the rates earned by account holders without either Eligible Direct Deposit or Qualifying Deposits until SoFi Bank recognizes Eligible Direct Deposit activity or receives $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits in a subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period. For the avoidance of doubt, an account holder with both Eligible Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits will earn the rates earned by account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit.

Separately, SoFi members who enroll in SoFi Plus by paying the SoFi Plus Subscription Fee every 30 days can also earn 3.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. For additional details, see the SoFi Plus Terms and Conditions at https://www.sofi.com/terms-of-use/#plus.

Members without either Eligible Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits, as determined by SoFi Bank, during a 30-Day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, or who do not enroll in SoFi Plus by paying the SoFi Plus Subscription Fee every 30 days, will earn 1.00% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances.

Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 1/24/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.
SoFi® Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. ©2025 SoFi Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.
The SoFi Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

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Apr
07
2025

What Are Banks? Definition and Explanation

By | money, Terminology | Comments Off on What Are Banks? Definition and Explanation

You may think of a bank as simply a safe place to put your money. But banks do a lot more than accept deposits. They also extend loans, facilitate payments, exchange currency, set monetary policy, and provide a range of other financial services to individuals, businesses, and governments. Here are key things to know about banks, including how they work, how they make money, and the different products and services they offer.

What Is a Bank?

By definition, a bank is an institution that accepts deposits in checking and savings accounts and makes loans. In serving both functions, banks act as intermediaries between depositors (who essentially lend money to the bank) and borrowers (to whom the bank lends money). The money the bank pays to depositors and charges on loans is called interest.

Banks also offer a range of other financial products and services, including:

•   Credit cards

•   Investment accounts

•   Wealth management services

•   Individual retirement accounts (IRAs)

•   High-yield savings accounts

•   Certificates of deposit (CDs)

•   Money market accounts

•   Currency exchange

•   Safe deposit boxes

Banks also facilitate payments — from employers to employees, buyers to sellers, and taxpayers to the government — and play a major role in the nation’s economy. There are also many different types of banks, including retail banks, corporate banks, and central banks.

How Do Banks Make Money?

Banks typically generate revenue through a variety of channels. These include:

•   Interest on loans: Banks lend money to individuals and businesses at higher interest rates than what they pay on deposits, earning the interest rate spread.

•   Fees: Banks may charge fees for various services, including account maintenance, overdrafts, wire transfers, and out-of-network ATM usage.

•   Investment income: Banks may invest in securities, bonds, and other financial instruments, earning returns on these investments.

•   Interchange fees: When customers use their debit or credit cards, banks earn fees from merchants processing the transactions.

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No account or overdraft fees. No minimum balance.

Up to 3.80% APY on savings balances.

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A Brief History of Banks

The concept of banking dates back to ancient civilizations, when temples were used as safe places to store valuable items and grain, and priests would lend these resources to local farmers and merchants. The temples were also responsible for keeping records of these transactions, laying the groundwork for bookkeeping.

The first modern banks emerged in Renaissance Italy, with institutions like the Medici Bank setting the standard for banking operations. Over centuries, banks evolved, expanding their products and services and adopting technological advancements to meet the growing demands of consumers and businesses. Today, banks are integral to the global economy.

Modern Bank Products for Consumers

Modern banks offer a variety of products tailored to meet the financial needs of consumers. Common banking products include:

Loans

Banks provide various types of consumer loans, such as mortgages, personal loans, and auto loans. These loans help individuals finance large purchases and manage their cash flow.

Savings and Checking Accounts

Savings and checking accounts are fundamental banking products. A savings account is designed to hold cash you don’t need right away and allow you to earn interest and grow your money over time.

Checking accounts are set up to offer easy access to funds for everyday transactions. They come with checks and typically a debit card that can be used for purchases or to withdraw funds at an ATM. Checking accounts generally earn little or no interest, though some banks now offer high-yield checking accounts.

Mortgages

Banks offer mortgage loans to help individuals purchase homes. These long-term loans typically come with fixed or variable interest rates and generally require you to use the property being purchased as collateral for the loan. Mortgage terms are typically 15, 20, or 30 years.

Investing Accounts

Many banks offer investment accounts, including IRAs and taxable brokerage accounts. These accounts enable customers to invest in stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and other financial instruments designed for long-term growth.

Credit Cards

Credit cards provide consumers with a revolving line of credit, allowing them to make purchases and pay for them over time. Banks earn interest and fees from credit card users, making it a significant revenue source.

Certificates of Deposit (CDs)

CDs are time deposits that offer a fixed interest rate for a specified term. You agree to leave your money in the account for a set period of time (which generally range from three months to five years). In return, these accounts typically pay a higher interest rate than a standard savings account.

Money Market Accounts

A money market account is a hybrid account that offers competitive interest on your balance, along with the conveniences of a checking account, such as a debit card and checks. However, you may be limited to a certain number of withdrawals per month. Some money market accounts also have minimum balance requirements.

Useful Bank Features

In addition to products, banks offer various services to help customers manage their money. Here are some features you may want to look out for when exploring different bank options.

Customer Support

Banks typically offer customer support through various channels, including phone, email, online chat, and in-person assistance. Whether you need assistance with your checking account or help choose between two banking products, a customer service rep can generally point you in the right direction.

Credit Score Checkers

Many banks offer tools that allow customers to monitor their credit scores for free. This service allows you to stay informed about your credit health and, if necessary, take steps to build your scores. Having strong credit can help you unlock credit cards, mortgages, and other types of loans with attractive rates and terms.

ATMs

Whether you open an account at a traditional brick-and-mortar institution or an online-only bank, you’ll typically have access to a wide network of fee-free automated teller machines (ATMs). This allows you to withdraw cash or make deposits without needing to visit a branch during business hours.

Online/Mobile Banking

Online banking and mobile banking apps allow you to monitor your accounts, transfer money, pay bills, and deposit checks from your computer or mobile device.

Financial Planning Tools

Many banks offer financial planning tools that help customers budget, save, and invest wisely. These tools can include calculators, goal-setting features, and personalized financial advice.

Bank Regulations

While banks are typically privately owned entities that must answer to their shareholders, banking is a highly regulated industry. Regulatory bodies, such as the Federal Reserve, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), and Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), oversee banks’ operations, ensuring they adhere to laws and maintain sufficient capital reserves. This is to minimize disruptions and ensure the U.S. banking system runs smoothly.

The majority of U.S. banks are also insured by the FDIC. This covers deposit accounts up to $250,000 per insured bank, per depositor. Co-owners of joint accounts at the same bank are typically each insured up to $250,000. The agency’s BankFind site can help you identify FDIC-insured banks throughout the country.

Types of Banks

There are several different types of banks, each serving different purposes and customer bases. The large global banks often operate separate arms or divisions for each of these categories.

Retail Banks

Retail banks focus on individual consumers, rather than businesses or other banks. They provide personal banking services, such as checking and savings accounts, personal loans, mortgages, auto loans, short-term loans like overdraft protection, and credit cards. They may also offer access to investment products, such as mutual funds and IRAs.

While some retail banks offer in-person services through brick-and-mortar locations, others operate exclusively online. Due to lower overhead costs, online banks tend to offer higher yields on savings accounts and charge lower (or no) fees.

Recommended: What Is Neobanking and How Does it Work?

Corporate Banks

Corporate banks (also known as commercial banks) cater to large businesses and corporations. They also serve government agencies and institutions like colleges and universities. Along with business checking and savings accounts, these banks offer business loans and lines of credit, letters of credit, payment processing, foreign exchange transactions, and more for their clients.

Investment Banks

Investment banks serve as intermediaries in large, complex financial transactions. They specialize in initial public offerings (IPOs), raising capital, facilitating mergers and acquisitions, and providing advisory services to corporations and governments. Unlike retail banks, they do not take deposits from or provide loans to the general public.

Central Banks

Central banks manage a nation’s monetary policy, regulate the banking industry, and act as a lender of last resort. The central bank in the U.S. is the Federal Reserve (a.k.a, “the Fed”). The Fed sets the federal funds rates, which impacts everything from the annual percentage yields (APYs) you earn on savings accounts to the interest rates you pay on credit card balances and loans. Unlike the banks types listed above, central banks do not deal directly with the public.

Pros and Cons of Banks

Retail and commercial banks offer myriad benefits, but they also have some downsides. Here’s a look at how the pros and cons stack up.

Pros

 Cons
Safe and secure Potential fees for various services
Easy access to funds Lower interest rates on deposits
Wide range of services Potentially complex fee structures
Highly regulated Potential for poor customer service

Pros

•   Safety: Banks provide a secure place to store money, reducing the risk of theft or loss. Deposits in most banks are federally insured (up to certain limits), which means that even if the bank were to fail, customers will still recover their funds, up to the insured limit.

•   Convenient access to funds: Banks offer easy access to funds through a network of branches, ATMs, and digital banking platforms.

•   One-stop shop: Banks provide a variety of financial services beyond basic checking and savings accounts, allowing you to manage all aspects of your finances under one roof.

•   Regulatory protection: Banks are heavily regulated by government agencies. These regulations protect consumers from fraud, ensure the safety of deposits, and promote ethical banking practices.

Cons

•   Fees: Banks often charge fees for their services, including fees for account maintenance, overdrafts, and wire transfers.

•   Low interest rates: Many banks offer relatively low interest rates on savings accounts and other deposit accounts. These rates often fail to keep pace with inflation, which can diminish the purchasing power of your savings over time.

•   Complex fee structures: The complexity of bank fees can create confusion for customers and result in unexpected expenses.

•   Potential for poor customer service: Large banks may offer impersonal or poor customer service due to their size and scale.

Banks vs Credit Unions

While banks and credit unions offer similar financial services, there are key differences between them. Here’s a closer look:

Ownership

Banks,typically, are owned by shareholders and operate for profit. Credit unions, by contrast, are owned by their members and operate on a not-for-profit basis. The main goal of a credit union is to benefit its members.

Fees and Interest Rates

Credit unions often offer lower fees and better interest rates on loans and savings accounts compared to traditional banks, as they are not driven by maximizing profits.

Membership

Banks are open to the general public. Credit unions require membership, which may be based on specific criteria such as employment, geographic location, or affiliation with a particular organization.

Customer Service

Credit unions tend to provide more personalized customer service due to their smaller size and member-focused approach. While small banks can also offer personalized customer service, larger banks may lack the personal touch.

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money management guide for beginners

Getting Started Banking With SoFi

A bank is an excellent resource to help manage your money. You can deposit funds for safekeeping, manage everyday spending, and invest for the future. Understanding the products, services, and perks offered by different banks can help you find the institution for your needs.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.


Better banking is here with SoFi, NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Checking Account Overall.* Enjoy up to 3.80% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

How do banks make money?

Banks primarily make money by lending out deposits at higher interest rates than they pay to depositors, earning the interest rate spread. They also earn money from the fees they charge for account maintenance, overdrafts, and transactions. Additionally, banks may invest in securities and earn returns.

Why do they call it a bank?

The term “bank” is thought to originate from the Italian word “banca,” which means bench or counter. In medieval times, moneylenders conducted their business on benches in marketplaces, and the term evolved to represent financial institutions.

What is a bank, simply put?

Simply put, a bank is a financial institution that accepts deposits and makes loans. Banks also play a key role in a nation’s economy, facilitating the management and movement of money for individuals, businesses, and governments.

About the author

Ashley Kilroy

Ashley Kilroy

Ashley Kilroy is a seasoned personal finance writer with 15 years of experience simplifying complex concepts for individuals seeking financial security. Her expertise has shined through in well-known publications like Rolling Stone, Forbes, SmartAsset, and Money Talks News. Read full bio.


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SoFi members with Eligible Direct Deposit activity can earn 3.80% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Eligible Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Eligible Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below).

Although we do our best to recognize all Eligible Direct Deposits, a small number of employers, payroll providers, benefits providers, or government agencies do not designate payments as direct deposit. To ensure you're earning 3.80% APY, we encourage you to check your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit arrives. If your APY is not showing as 3.80%, contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. As long as SoFi Bank can validate those details, you will start earning 3.80% APY from the date you contact SoFi for the rest of the current 30-day Evaluation Period. You will also be eligible for 3.80% APY on future Eligible Direct Deposits, as long as SoFi Bank can validate them.

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi members with Eligible Direct Deposit are eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

As an alternative to Direct Deposit, SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 3.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant. SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits are not eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Eligible Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving an Eligible Direct Deposit or receipt of $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 3.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Eligible Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.

SoFi Bank reserves the right to grant a grace period to account holders following a change in Eligible Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits activity before adjusting rates. If SoFi Bank grants you a grace period, the dates for such grace period will be reflected on the APY Details page of your account. If SoFi Bank determines that you did not have Eligible Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits during the current 30-day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, then you will begin earning the rates earned by account holders without either Eligible Direct Deposit or Qualifying Deposits until SoFi Bank recognizes Eligible Direct Deposit activity or receives $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits in a subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period. For the avoidance of doubt, an account holder with both Eligible Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits will earn the rates earned by account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit.

Separately, SoFi members who enroll in SoFi Plus by paying the SoFi Plus Subscription Fee every 30 days can also earn 3.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. For additional details, see the SoFi Plus Terms and Conditions at https://www.sofi.com/terms-of-use/#plus.

Members without either Eligible Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits, as determined by SoFi Bank, during a 30-Day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, or who do not enroll in SoFi Plus by paying the SoFi Plus Subscription Fee every 30 days, will earn 1.00% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances.

Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 1/24/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.
*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .


External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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