Question

1. In 120 to 150 words (at least 120 but not more than 150), describe how the responsibilities and expectations from Financial Analysts have evolved from 2000 to 2020
2. In 120 to 150 words (at least 120 but not more than 150), contrast the two occupations (a) Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents and (b) Financial Analysts
3. Tell us which of the (a) Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents, (b) Financial Analysts, and (c) Personal Financial Advisors (as defined by U.S. BLS in 2020) may appeal to you; and why

Answer 1

1) Over the years market has improved in terms of efficiency and so has equally increased the expectations from a financial analyst. Compared to earlier times when analyst had to depend largely on whatever the company reported and provide analysis on it, now the laws have been more stringent and is easily available across board from various sources. Financial analyst is now expected to be quick in analysing the available information and providing deep insights which can be used to make quick investment decisions. An analyst is also expected to be efficient enough to sell his stock ideas to HNI clients. Compared to earlier a financial analyst is expected to have deep knowledge about the financials, good connections, ability to infer quickly and be presentable at the same time.

2) Securities, commodities, and financial services sales agents

· What They Do: agents generate leads and connect buyers and sellers in financial markets.

· Work Environment: work in high-stress environments with targets assigned and often work more than 40 hours/ week to meet them

· How to Become One: A bachelor’s degree is required for entry-level jobs, and a master's degree in business administration is useful for advancement.

· Salary: The median annual wage for securities, commodities, and financial services sales agents is $70,000.

Financial Analyst

· What They Do: Analyse companies, stocks to generate better investment options

· Work Environment: Analyst work in high-stress environments with targets assigned and often work more than 60 hours/week to meet them

· How to Become One: A Master’s degree is required for entry-level job

· Salary: The median annual wage for securities, commodities, and financial services sales agents is $1000,000.

Particulars	Sales Agents	Financial Analysts	Personal Financial Advisors
Job Description	Generate leads and connect buyers and sellers in financial markets.	Analyse companies, stocks to generate better investment options	Advising HNI clients on investments (Stocks/Bonds/Mutual Funds etc) across asset class
Salary	Average	High	Average
Work/ life balance	Yes	No	Yes
Targets	Yes	No	Yes

I have worked in all the mentioned professions and anyone who believes is good at sales and can handle the targets pressure can work as a sales agent or personal financial advisor.

I have preferred working as a financial analyst after working in the other two as I liking deep in the company financials and coming up with good investment ideas