Financial Market Services

Definition ∞ Financial market services encompass the broad array of activities and functions that facilitate the operation of financial markets. These services include trading, settlement, clearing, custody, and advisory functions for various financial instruments. They are essential for allocating capital, managing risk, and enabling economic activity. These services are provided by banks, brokers, exchanges, and other financial institutions.
Context ∞ The digital asset sector is rapidly developing its own suite of financial market services, often leveraging blockchain technology for efficiency and transparency. News reports frequently discuss innovations in digital asset custody, trading platforms, and decentralized lending protocols. Regulatory bodies are actively working to extend existing frameworks, such as regulatory supervision and authorization, to ensure stability and consumer protection within these new digital offerings.