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What does a Stock Broker do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A stock broker is a professional who helps people buy and sell stocks. They work with clients to understand their investment goals and then find the best stocks for them to buy or sell. A good stock broker will also provide advice and guidance on how to make money in the stock market.

Stock Broker job duties include:

  • Advise clients on investment strategies and recommend specific investments
  • Research investments and present findings to clients
  • Monitor clients’ portfolios and adjust as needed
  • Buy and sell securities on behalf of clients
  • Generate new business by developing relationships with potential clients
  • Keep up with current market trends and news
  • Attend conferences and seminars to stay abreast of industry developments
  • Prepare reports for clients detailing investment activity and performance
  • Some stock brokers may also provide financial planning services

Stock Broker Job Requirements

A stock broker is someone who buys and sells stocks and other securities on behalf of their clients. In order to become a stock broker, you will need at least a bachelor's degree in business or economics. You will also need to pass the Series 7 exam, which is administered by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). In addition, most stock brokers have several years of experience working in the financial industry before they can start their own brokerage firm.

Stock Broker Skills

  • Analytical skills
  • Profit and loss analysis
  • Financial analysis
  • Stock market analysis
  • Technical analysis
  • Financial modeling
  • Financial forecasting
  • Financial planning
  • Investment strategy
  • Asset allocation
  • Risk management
  • Portfolio management

Related: Top Stock Broker Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Stock Broker

A stock broker is an individual or firm that charges a fee or commission to buy and sell stocks and other securities on behalf of their clients. Stock brokers typically work for brokerages, which are firms that buy and sell stocks and other securities on behalf of their clients. In order to become a stock broker, one must first obtain a license from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). To become licensed, individuals must pass the Series 7 Exam, which tests their knowledge of the securities industry. After passing the exam, individuals must also complete a background check and fingerprinting. Once licensed, stock brokers can work for themselves or for a brokerage firm.

Related: Stock Broker Resume Example

Related: Stock Broker Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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