The role of a financial analyst sounds complicated, but it's pretty simple. There are basically two job requirements: to report on what has happened and to predict what will happen next.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
If you were the financial analyst for a donut shop, for example, you would be responsible for tracking and reporting how many donuts were sold in the last quarter, the cost of producing those donuts, and the profits made. Then you would estimate how many donuts the shop is likely to sell in the coming quarter and what it will cost to produce those donuts in order to help build an accurate budget.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Most entry-level financial analysts hold at least a bachelor's degree in economics, business, or accounting. Mid and senior-level analysts are often required to have a master's degree or an MBA<\/a>. Non-degree certifications can also help financial analysts gain access to better opportunities and better pay. The BLS reports job growth projections for financial analyst careers<\/a> outpace the average growth of all occupations.<\/p>\r\n\r\n Keep reading to learn more about what a financial analyst does and how to break into this lucrative field.<\/p>\r\n\r\n Of course, there's more to financial analysis than just donuts. Wealthy investors and companies often need financial analysts to make data-driven decisions to grow capital. Typical job duties include staying up to date on economic trends and reaching out to clients. Financial analysts also provide executives with actionable insights on liquidity, solvency, and profitability.<\/p>\r\n\r\n Financial analysts often assume responsibilities associated with accounting, marketing, and psychology<\/a>. For instance, a financial analyst may need to submit financial reports to regulatory bodies. They may also engage stakeholders and manage client expectations.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\n \n \n <\/a>\n\n\r\n Financial analysts' responsibilities depend on their roles and the time of year. For instance, financial analysts who work for publicly traded companies may submit 10-Qs to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). They may also prepare quarterly earnings reports and attend shareholder meetings.<\/p>\r\n\r\n Financial analysts should stay current on market news. They often perform technical analysis, assess uncertainty in investment decisions, and provide actionable information to executives. They may also spend parts of the year completing continuing education requirements to renew licensure or certifications.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\n \n \n <\/a>\n\n\r\n\r\n Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.<\/p>\r\n<\/sonic-editorial-listings>\r\n\r\n\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\r\n\r\n\n \n \n <\/a>\n\n\r\n Financial analyst credentials can pave the way for a rewarding and profitable career. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics<\/a> (BLS), the median annual income reached $101,910 for financial analysts in May 2024.<\/p>\r\n\r\n Factors influencing salary include education, industry, experience, and location. Financial analysts working in securities, commodity contracts, and other financial investments and related activities earned a median annual salary of $124,050 as of May 2024. Those working in credit intermediation and related activities, by contrast, earned a median annual salary of $99,990 in May 2024.<\/p>\r\n\r\nWhat Is a Financial Analyst?<\/h2>\r\n\r\n
A Day in the Life of a Financial Analyst<\/h3>\r\n\r\n
Key Soft Skills for a Financial Analyst<\/h3>\r\n\r\n
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Key Hard Skills for a Financial Analyst<\/h3>\r\n\r\n
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Featured Online Finance Programs<\/h2>\r\n
Financial Analyst Salary and Career Path<\/h2>\r\n\r\n