Financial Institution (Institution financière)

A commercial or investment bank, trust company, brokerage house, insurance company, or other institution that participates in financial transactions involving cash or financial products. The primary role of such an institution is to facilitate the financing of investments, from home mortgages to the raising of funds via the issue of debt or equity for mega-projects. It may also provide insurance, take on fiduciary responsibilities, store cash and securities for safekeeping, etc.