This unit is designed to provide the understanding on the operation and behaviour of banks, their specific characteristics, functions of major types of banks and the special intermediation role they play in the financial system and the economy as a whole. The unit also pay attention on how banking meets a range of payments, savings, and investment and risk management needs that exist in modern societies. Emphasis is further placed on the evolution and globalization of the banking system, modern financial instruments, and the interdependence between banks and financial markets. The unit also pay attention to explain why banks need regulation, and illustrate the main reasons for and against bank regulation.