Money Market Accounts & Money Market Funds…What’s the Difference?
Money Market accounts and Money Market funds* serve different financial purposes and have distinct characteristics.
Money Market accounts are offered by banks and credit unions. They are essentially savings accounts with some checking account features, such as the ability to write checks or use a debit card. These accounts typically offer higher interest rates than regular savings accounts and are insured by the FDIC (Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation) or NCUA (National Credit Union Administration), providing a level of security for your deposits.
On the other hand, Money Market funds are a type of mutual fund that invests in short-term, high-quality debt securities, such as Treasury bills, certificates of deposit, and commercial paper. These funds are managed by investment companies and aim to offer higher returns than traditional savings accounts, though they come with some level of risk. Unlike Money Market accounts, Money Market funds are not insured, meaning there is a potential for loss of principal.
In summary, while both options offer liquidity and are generally considered safe, Money Market accounts are more suitable for those seeking security and insurance for their savings, whereas Money Market funds might appeal to investors looking for potentially higher returns with a willingness to accept some risk.
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*Money Market funds are not FDIC/NCUSIF insured, may lose value, are not financial institution guaranteed, not a deposit, and not insured by any federal government agency.