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Investment Analyst Duties and Responsibilities

The type of company an Investment Analyst works for will greatly determine his or her duties and responsibilities. Large companies may require Investment Analysts to focus on the research and guidance aspects of the job, whereas smaller firms may expect analysts to perform additional duties. There are, however, several common primary duties nearly all Investment Analysts can expect to perform. A review of current job listings identified the following core responsibilities.

Conduct Research and Analysis The core responsibility of an Investment Analyst is to conduct research and analyze data. They may assess the performance of stocks and bonds, analyze profit and loss sheets and companies' accounts, and make informed recommendations to their manager or team leader regarding financial directions. While they are not responsible for making the ultimate decision in investments they do conduct the research and provide the data that aids in the decision-making process.

Create Reports Writing financial research summaries and compiling data into comprehensive reports are part of the Investment Analyst's job requirements. The reports often include a recommendation section that offers advice on which actions should be taken and which actions are to be avoided. Analyst.

Consult with Colleagues Investment Analysts typically spend part of their day consulting with stockbrokers, stock market traders, fund managers and other business contacts to aid in their analyses. Keeping tabs on the financial markets' constantly changing patterns and trends requires Investment Analysts to be in close contact with these people on a day-to-day basis. They may speak directly with them, or may review reports and data they have compiled. Creating good relationships and partnerships are important to an analyst's success. Investment Analysts may also be required to throw together quick presentations to make their data easy to see and understand.

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Investment Analyst Skills

Successful Investment Analysts are ambitious, committed individuals who are not opposed to working long hours and weekends in a fast-paced environment. They must be very self-motivated and have an aptitude for mathematics. Their communication skills must be impeccable and they must possess great interpersonal skills as well. In addition to these traits, employers look for candidates with the following skills. Core skills: Based on job listings we looked at, employers want Investment Analysts with these core skills. If you want to work as an Investment Analyst, focus on the following.
  • Understanding financial markets and trends
  • Analyzing and interpreting financial data from many sources
  • Researching current and historical financial market data
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office software, especially Excel
Advanced skills: While most employers did not require the following skills, multiple job listings included them as preferred. Broaden your career options by including these skills to your knowledge base.
  • Prior experience in financial and trend analysis
  • Background or degree in Economics, Finance or Business
  • CFA background or certification
  • Knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP)
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Investment Analyst Resources

There are some helpful and informational resources available on the Web for those interested in becoming an Investment Analyst. We scoured the internet and found these links full of learning opportunities and the latest industry news. On the Web

Zacks Analyst Blog - Zacks, a popular investment research company, maintains a blog about all the latest news in the finance industry. Ms. Cheat Sheet - This site is run by Kathryn Cicoletti who has over 10 years' experience in the investment management industry. Her blog is entertaining while still providing useful industry news and tips. Twitter

@IBDinvestors - This feed is maintained by Investor's Business Daily and provides stock market news and analysis as well as education for investors. @SNLFinancial - Follow this global powerhouse company for timely financial news and analytics. Industry Groups

Certified International Investment Analyst - The ACIIA was established in 2000 and represents over 100,000 analysts, investment advisers, and portfolio managers worldwide. They offer educational programs, conferences and other resources to their members.

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