Business banking is a company's financial dealings with an institution that provides business loans, credit, savings accounts, and checking accounts, specifically designed for companies rather than for individuals. Business banking occurs when a bank, or division of a bank, only deals with businesses. A bank that deals mainly with individuals is generally called a retail bank, while a bank that deals with capital markets is known as an investment bank. There are some banks that deal with both types of clients.
Demand for business banking is increasing in the United States, as the business sector continues to grow. Commercial banks have been declining since 2002, when there were 7,870 commercial banks, compared to 4,708 in 2018. This has primarily been due to mergers and acquisitions. The companies with the highest market share of corporate or business banking are Wells Fargo, JPMorgan Chase, and Bank of America, with JPMorgan Chase being the largest commercial bank in the U.S., with 2019 revenues of $142 billion. It's important to note these banks also operate as investment banks and retail banks, allowing them to be diversified in both clients and products offered.