Too Big to Fail: Definition, History, and Reforms
“Too big to fail” describes a business or business sector so ingrained in a financial system or economy that its failure would be disastrous. The government will consider bailing out…
Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP), What It Was, How It Worked
What Was the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP)? The Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) was created and run by the U.S. Treasury to stabilize the country’s financial system, restore economic…
What Does Russia’s Removal From SWIFT Mean For the Future of Global Commerce?
Removing Russian banks from the SWIFT system is accelerating a global economic realignment. With the rapid escalation of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, a large coalition of states, including the EU,…
Margin Trading Explained Plus Advantages & Disadvantages
What Is Margin? The margin is the collateral that an investor has to deposit with their broker or exchange to cover the credit risk the holder poses for the broker…
What is a Commercial Bank, How Do They Work, and Why Do They Matter?
What Is a Commercial Bank? The term “commercial bank” refers to a financial institution that accepts deposits, offers checking account services, makes various loans and offers essential financial products like…
Credit Score? Definition, Factors, and Ways to Raise It
What Is a Credit Score? A credit score is a three-digit number that rates your creditworthiness. FICO scores range from 300 to 850. The higher the score, the more likely…
Collateral Definition, Its Types, & Examples
What Is Collateral? Collateral in the financial world is a valuable asset that a borrower pledges as security for a loan. For example, when a homebuyer obtains a mortgage, the…
Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM): What It Is and Different Types
What Is an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM)? The term adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) refers to a home loan with a variable interest rate. With an ARM, the initial interest rate is fixed…
What Is a Mortgage? Types, How They Work, and Examples
What Is a Mortgage? A mortgage is a type of loan used to purchase or maintain a home, land, or other types of real estate. The borrower agrees to pay…
Reserve Requirements: A Definition, History, and Example
What Are Reserve Requirements? Reserve requirements are the amount of cash that financial institutions must have, in their vaults or at the closest Federal Reserve bank, in line with deposits…