What is one of the primary roles of an investment banker?

One of the primary roles of an investment banker is to assist companies in raising capital. Investment bankers specialize in helping businesses secure financing through various means, such as issuing stocks or bonds. When a company needs to raise funds for expansion, acquisitions, or other purposes, investment bankers serve as intermediaries between the company and potential investors. They provide expertise in structuring financial transactions, navigating regulatory requirements, and determining the right pricing for securities. This role is crucial for companies, especially those looking to grow, as it helps them access the funds necessary to achieve their objectives while minimizing financial risk.

The other options represent functions typically associated with other financial professions. Providing insurance policies pertains to the insurance industry, managing individual retirement accounts is primarily the role of financial advisors or wealth managers, and determining government monetary policies is the responsibility of central banks and government agencies, not investment bankers. Therefore, assisting companies in raising capital is the distinct and primary function of investment bankers.