#1
Which of the following is a primary function of commercial banks?
Accepting deposits and granting loans
ExplanationCommercial banks facilitate economic activities by accepting deposits from the public and providing loans to individuals and businesses.
#2
What does the term 'IPO' stand for in finance?
Initial Public Offering
ExplanationIPO refers to the process where a company offers its shares to the public for the first time, raising capital by becoming a publicly traded entity.
#3
What is the function of a central bank in a country's economy?
To issue currency and regulate money supply
ExplanationA central bank issues the national currency and implements policies to regulate the money supply, aiming for economic stability and financial soundness.
#4
Which of the following is NOT considered a type of financial institution?
Stock exchange
ExplanationA stock exchange is a marketplace for buying and selling securities; it functions as a platform for trading rather than a financial institution that provides banking services.
#5
What is the main function of an investment bank?
Facilitating mergers and acquisitions
ExplanationInvestment banks specialize in various financial services, including advising on mergers and acquisitions, underwriting securities, and providing strategic financial guidance to corporations.
#6
Which financial institution typically offers the highest interest rates on savings accounts?
Credit union
ExplanationCredit unions, being member-owned cooperatives, often offer competitive interest rates on savings accounts and other financial products due to their not-for-profit structure.
#7
Which financial institution acts as a middleman between savers and borrowers by accepting deposits and making loans?
Commercial bank
ExplanationCommercial banks play a crucial role as intermediaries, mobilizing funds from depositors and channeling them to borrowers in the form of loans.
#8
What is the primary role of the Federal Reserve System (the Fed) in the United States?
To control inflation and manage monetary policy
ExplanationThe Fed is responsible for regulating the money supply, controlling inflation, and managing the overall monetary policy to ensure economic stability.
#9
What is the main function of an insurance company in the financial market?
Pooling risk and providing financial protection
ExplanationInsurance companies pool risks by collecting premiums from policyholders and providing financial protection against specified risks, such as accidents or illnesses.
#10
What term describes a financial institution that offers a wide range of banking services to individuals and businesses?
Retail bank
ExplanationRetail banks provide a comprehensive range of financial services, including savings accounts, loans, and other banking products, to both individuals and businesses.
#11
What does the term 'SEC' stand for in finance?
Securities and Exchange Commission
ExplanationThe SEC is a regulatory body that oversees and enforces securities laws, aiming to protect investors and maintain fair and efficient markets.
#12
Which of the following financial institutions is owned by its members and operates for their mutual benefit?
Credit union
ExplanationCredit unions are cooperative financial institutions owned by their members, who are also customers, and they operate for the mutual benefit of their members.
#13
Which of the following financial institutions specializes in facilitating the buying and selling of securities for both individual and institutional clients?
Brokerage firm
ExplanationBrokerage firms act as intermediaries, enabling the purchase and sale of securities on behalf of clients, including both individuals and institutions.
#14
What is the primary objective of a venture capital firm?
Providing financing to start-up companies
ExplanationVenture capital firms invest in and provide financial support to early-stage and high-potential start-up companies, often in exchange for equity.
#15
What is the primary function of a pension fund?
Managing retirement savings
ExplanationPension funds manage and invest funds contributed by individuals and employers to provide retirement benefits to employees in the future.
#16
What does the term 'FDIC' stand for in banking?
Financial Deposit Insurance Corporation
ExplanationThe FDIC is a government agency that provides deposit insurance, ensuring the safety of deposits in member banks and thrifts.
#17
What is the primary function of a development bank?
Providing loans to support economic development projects
ExplanationDevelopment banks focus on providing financial support in the form of loans to projects that contribute to economic development, such as infrastructure and industrial projects.