Financial Analyst
Financial analysts evaluate investment opportunities, financial performance, and economic trends to guide business decisions. They build financial models, analyze income statements and balance sheets, and prepare reports for management or clients. The BLS reports a median salary of $95,080 with 8% projected growth. A bachelor's degree in finance, economics, or accounting is required, and many pursue the CFA designation.
A Day in the Life
A typical day starts with reviewing overnight market news and updating financial models in Excel. Mid-morning involves analyzing a company's quarterly earnings report and comparing it to industry benchmarks. After lunch, the analyst prepares a presentation recommending whether to buy, hold, or sell a stock. The afternoon includes a call with a company's investor relations team and revising revenue projections based on new data.
Key Stats
Education
Bachelor's Degree
Salary Range
Entry: $60,000
Median: $95,080
Senior: $155,000
Job Growth