What is the primary purpose of the FDIC?

The primary purpose of the FDIC, or Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, is to maintain public confidence in the U.S. financial system. This is achieved through providing deposit insurance to depositors in member banks, which protects their funds in the event of a bank failure. By guaranteeing that depositors will receive their insured deposits, the FDIC helps to stabilize the banking system and fosters trust among consumers, encouraging them to use banking services. Maintaining public confidence is essential for a healthy economy, as it promotes savings and investment, which are vital for financial growth. The focus on protecting individual depositors also highlights the FDIC's role in preventing bank runs and minimizing the impact of financial crises on the broader economy.