Financial markets play a significant role in the economic development of a country. They enable individuals and companies to buy and sell assets and invest their savings in productive activities. The money market, for instance, provides investors with access to cheap interest rates and certificates of deposit. Money markets also provide investors with options to sell and borrow money to finance short-term purchases.
Financial markets are important because they bring together borrowers and lenders. Using these markets, the price of securities is set. This allows companies to efficiently allocate resources and achieve the best possible outcome. Keeping these markets operational helps manage risk and improve quality of investment decisions.
The market also serves as a platform for the exchange of resources and services. It also brings all parties involved in the exchange together. This facilitates efficient trading. By bringing buyers and sellers together, the financial market helps ensure a good balance between current and future consumption.
There are many different types of financial markets. These include the money market, debt market, stock market and derivative market. Some of the main entities that use the market are governments and companies.
The financial markets have experienced massive development since the 1970s. They have been strengthened by regulatory reform initiatives that have helped maintain stability and confidence in the markets. However, in recent years, several financial markets have suffered from a lack of liquidity. If a market does not have sufficient liquidity, fewer people will want to purchase shares. That could hinder economic growth.