What does a Securities Analyst do?
Published 3 min read
A securities analyst is a professional who performs analysis of a company's financial statements and performance in order to make investment recommendations.
Securities Analyst job duties include:
- Research and analyze financial information on securities and investment opportunities
- Monitor market trends in order to identify opportunities and threats
- Develop financial models to evaluate the performance of securities
- Prepare reports detailing findings and recommendations
- Present findings to clients or senior management
- Stay up-to-date on changes in the industry and regulatory environment
- Identify potential risks associated with investments
- Monitor portfolios to ensure that they are performing as expected
- Buy and sell securities in order to generate profits for clients or firms
Securities Analyst Job Requirements
A securities analyst is a professional who performs analysis of a company's financial statements and performance, as well as the overall market conditions, in order to provide investment recommendations to clients. A securities analyst typically has a four-year degree in business or economics and must be certified by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). Some employers may require prior experience working in the financial industry.
Securities Analyst Skills
- Analytical skills
- Profit and loss analysis
- Financial analysis
- Finance
- Asset management
- Real estate
- Financial modeling
- Business strategy
- Investment banking
- Equity research
- Financial planning
- Risk management
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How to become a Securities Analyst
There are many different types of securities analysts, but they all have one thing in common: they analyze securities. A securities analyst may work for a brokerage firm, an investment bank, or another financial institution.
The job of a securities analyst is to research and analyze investments, such as stocks, bonds, and other securities. They use this information to make recommendations to their clients about whether to buy, sell, or hold a security.
Becoming a securities analyst requires at least a bachelor’s degree in business, economics, finance, or a related field. Many analysts also have a master’s degree or higher. Many firms also require that candidates have passing scores on the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) exams.
Analysts typically start their careers in entry-level positions and then move up the ladder as they gain experience and knowledge. Some eventually become portfolio managers or other senior executives.
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