SWIFT, or the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication, is a global network that enables financial institutions to send and receive information about financial transactions securely and efficiently. Established in 1973, it provides a standardized messaging system that helps banks and other financial entities communicate with each other across borders. The SWIFT network is crucial for international trade and finance, as it facilitates cross-border payments and ensures that transactions are processed quickly and accurately. With over 11,000 member institutions in more than 200 countries, SWIFT plays a vital role in the global economy by connecting banks and financial services worldwide.