Which of the following are types of thrift institutions?

Savings and loan associations are a type of thrift institution, which primarily focus on accepting savings deposits and making mortgage loans. Their main purpose is to promote saving and provide access to credit, particularly for home purchasing. This category of financial institutions emerged to aid individuals in saving money and obtaining home financing, and they play a critical role in the residential mortgage market.

Thrift institutions like savings and loan associations differ from commercial banks, which offer a broader array of financial services, including business loans and checking accounts. Similarly, investment banks and brokerage firms are primarily focused on securities markets and investment products, rather than on promoting saving and home financing. Each of those alternatives operates under different regulatory frameworks and fulfills distinct roles in the financial system, which is why they are not classified as thrift institutions.