What is credit risk in banking?

Credit risk in banking refers to the likelihood that a borrower will be unable to meet their obligations in accordance with the agreed terms, such as repaying a loan. This risk arises when banks extend credit to individuals or businesses, creating the potential for financial loss if these borrowers default on their loans. Since loans are an essential component of a bank's operations, understanding and managing credit risk is crucial for maintaining financial stability and profitability.

In contrast, the other options describe different types of risks. The risk of losing money in investments pertains to market risk, while changes in market interest rates reflect interest rate risk. Operational failures relate to operational risk, which involves risks arising from internal processes, people, and systems, or from external events. Each of these risks is distinct from credit risk, underscoring the importance of recognizing and managing the specific nature of each risk type within banking operations.