Banking Statistics

Last Updated on: January 13th, 2024

Here is a collection of some of the most interesting banking statistics and facts I have stumbled across in my internet travels. These posts cover both the industry and individual banks.

Banking Fun Facts

The first bank in the world was the Bank of Stockholm, established in 1656 in Sweden.
The word “bank” comes from the Italian word “banco,” which means “bench,” as early bankers in Italy used benches to conduct their transactions.
The first credit card was issued by Diners Club in 1950 and could only be used at 27 restaurants in New York City.
The first ATM was installed by Barclays Bank in London in 1967.
The largest bank in the world by assets is Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC), with over $4 trillion in assets.
The first bank in the United States was the Bank of North America, established in Philadelphia in 1781.
The first paper currency was introduced in China during the Tang dynasty (618-907 AD).
The first modern central bank was the Bank of Sweden, established in 1668.
The FDIC (Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation) was established in the United States in 1933 to insure bank deposits and prevent bank runs during times of financial crisis.
The Bank of England is the oldest central bank in the world, established in 1694.