One thing to keep in mind. If a large percentage of bank customers got scared and pulled out all of their cash at once the bank would fold much like this market did. I know that the FDIC insures your money, but they only insure a small amount. $15k. Our entire economy is based off of perception ever since we left the gold standard.,(reply>), @Scienide That's good to know. I remember my mom telling me that it was 15 and I believed her because she worked in a bank. That was back in the late 80s though.,(reply>), FDIC insures $250,000.  Where did you get $15,000 from?,(reply>), FDIC covers not less than $250,000 per covered depositor per institution.