Retail banking refers to the banking services provided directly to individual customers, rather than to corporations or other businesses. These services include:

Deposits:

• Checking accounts
• Savings accounts
• Money market accounts
• Certificates
• Money transfers

Loans:

• Mortgages
• Auto loans
• Personal loans
• Credit cards
• Lines of credit

Other services:

• Payment processing
• Money orders
• Traveler’s checks
• Foreign exchange
• Investment services
• Insurance
• Wealth management

Key characteristics of retail banking:

• Directly provided to individuals: Retail banking services are tailored specifically for individual customers, not for corporations or other businesses.
• Wide range of services: Retail banks offer a wide range of services to meet the diverse needs of individuals, including deposit accounts, loans, payments, and investments.
• Branch network: Retail banks typically have a network of branches located in convenient locations for customers.
• Relationship-oriented: Retail banks typically have a strong focus on relationship building with customers, which can lead to personalized service and additional offerings.

Here are some of the challenges faced by retail banks:

• Competition: Retail banks face competition from other financial institutions, such as online banks, credit unions, and fintech companies.
• Regulatory changes: Retail banks are subject to a complex web of regulations, which can be challenging to comply with.
• Cybersecurity threats: Retail banks are susceptible to cybersecurity threats, which can lead to data breaches and other security breaches.

Despite these challenges, retail banks continue to play an important role in the financial system. They provide valuable services to individuals and help them to manage their finances and meet their various needs.

Here are some additional resources you may find helpful:

• Wikipedia: Retail Banking: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Retail_banking
• Investopedia: Retail Banking: investopedia.com/terms/r/retailbanking.asp
• First Republic Bank: Retail Banking: firstrepublicbank.com/personal-banking