The Renaissance marked a critical economic change in Europe characterized by the shift from feudal agrarian economies to more diversified commercial and urban economies. This period saw the rise of trade, banking, and the emergence of a merchant class, which played a leading role in fostering economic growth. The development of market-oriented agriculture and the creation of cities contributed to increased productivity and a greater exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural practices. Innovations in banking systems and financial instruments facilitated trade expansion. This economic transformation laid the groundwork for the eventual rise of capitalism and set the stage for the modern economic landscape.