Access to capital is important for all firms, but it's particularly vital for startups and young firms, which often lack a sufficient stream of earnings to increase employment and internally finance capital spending.

Expanded credit access has helped households maintain living standards when suffering job loss, illness, or other unexpected contingencies.

Many financial innovations such as the increased availability of low-cost mutual funds have improved opportunities for households to participate in asset markets and diversify their holdings.

Janet Yellen Quotes