What type of financial service is provided by banks through credit cards?

The correct choice is a form of lending, as credit cards fundamentally serve the purpose of providing consumers with the ability to borrow money up to a certain limit to make purchases. When a credit card is used, the bank is extending credit to the cardholder, allowing them to make purchases without requiring immediate payment. This means that the user is effectively borrowing funds from the bank, which they commit to pay back either in full or over time with interest. The lending aspect is crucial as it reflects the core function of credit cards in the financial ecosystem, making it a vital service offered by banks.

In contrast, insurance services relate to risk management and do not involve borrowing or lending. Investment management focuses on managing investment portfolios and strategies, which is not the primary function of credit card services. Asset management involves overseeing the investments in various assets but does not pertain to the lending nature of credit cards. Therefore, understanding the nature of credit cards as a lending instrument clarifies why the correct answer is indeed a form of lending.