Definition ∞ Financial services infrastructure encompasses the fundamental systems, networks, and legal frameworks that support the operation of financial markets and services. This includes payment systems, clearinghouses, trading platforms, and the underlying technological and regulatory structures. In the digital asset space, it extends to blockchain networks and decentralized finance platforms. It forms the backbone of global economic activity.
Context ∞ The modernization of financial services infrastructure is a recurring topic in financial news, particularly with the rise of digital assets and distributed ledger technology. Current discussions address the integration of blockchain into traditional systems, the development of central bank digital currencies, and the regulatory challenges associated with these innovations. The objective is to create more efficient, secure, and accessible financial systems. This transformation is a global priority.