What is the purpose of the FDIC?

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) was established to maintain stability and public confidence in the banking system. This is primarily accomplished through the insurance it provides to depositors. The FDIC insures deposits in member banks up to the legal limit, currently set at $250,000 per depositor, per insured bank. This insurance protects depositors against bank failures, thereby promoting stability in the banking system and enhancing public trust. When depositors know their money is insured, they are more likely to keep their funds in banks rather than withdrawing them during times of economic uncertainty, which helps to avoid bank runs and supports overall financial stability.

The other options mentioned do not accurately describe the FDIC's purpose. For example, while the FDIC does not provide loans to homeowners, its focus is on the protection of depositors. Also, it does not engage in brokering real estate transactions or setting interest rates for loans, as these functions fall within the purview of other entities and regulatory bodies in the financial system.