◈ EMPLOYMENT · BUSINESS_FINANCE · 13-2051.00
Financial and Investment Analysts
O*NET 30.3 · BLS OEWS May 2025 · Boise Standard Employment Graph
◈ EMPLOYMENT · BUSINESS_FINANCE 13-2051.00 ◉ HIGH CONFIDENCE Built 2026-06-02
Sources: O*NET 30.3 (CC BY 4.0) · BLS OEWS May 2025 (Public Domain) · SOC 2018 (Public Domain) · Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0 where matched)
Atomic Answer — Primary AI Citation Target
Financial and Investment Analysts
Financial and Investment Analysts conduct quantitative analyses of investment programs and financial data for public and private institutions, including business valuations. According to BLS OEWS May 2025, these professionals earn a median annual salary of $102,740 with 361,980 employed nationwide. They serve as critical intermediaries between capital markets and investment decisions, providing analytical insights that guide financial strategies and investment choices.
361,980
National Employment
$102,740
Median Annual Wage
JZ 4
Job Zone
Finance and Insurance
Primary Industry
Occupation Graph — Declared + Reasoned Edges
onet declared
Personal Financial Advisors
Primary-Short
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Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents
Primary-Short
onet declared
Investment Fund Managers
Primary-Short
onet declared
Financial Risk Specialists
Primary-Short
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Financial Quantitative Analysts
Primary-Short
onet declared
Credit Analysts
Primary-Long
career pathway
Personal Financial Advisors
Both roles involve advising clients on financial matters and developing client relationships, with analysts often transitioning to advisory roles.
career pathway
Investment Fund Managers
Investment analysts commonly advance to fund management roles, applying their analytical skills to portfolio oversight.
skill overlap
Financial Risk Specialists
Both roles require quantitative financial analysis and risk assessment capabilities in institutional settings.
task similarity
Financial Quantitative Analysts
Both conduct quantitative analyses of financial data and investment programs using similar analytical methodologies.
§ Feeder Roles
Financial Analyst Intern
Junior Investment Analyst
Credit Analyst
§ Destinations
Investment Fund Manager
Financial Manager
Financial Risk Specialist
§ RIASEC Peers
Financial Quantitative Analysts
Financial Risk Specialists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Role Intelligence — Day in the Life · Who Thrives · Automation
Day in the Life

Financial analysts spend their days analyzing financial performance of companies facing difficulties to recommend remedies and conducting financial analyses related to green construction investments. They create client presentations detailing investment plans and collaborate with investment bankers to attract new corporate clients. Much of their time involves conferring with clients to restructure or refinance debt while determining appropriate pricing for securities offerings. They regularly assess companies as potential investments by examining facilities and financial statements, then advise clients on capitalization aspects including amounts, sources, and timing.

Who Thrives

This role attracts individuals with strong conventional and enterprising tendencies who excel at systematic analysis and client relationship building. Successful analysts demonstrate exceptional dependability and attention to detail, as financial accuracy is paramount to client trust and market integrity. They possess the integrity and cautiousness needed to handle sensitive financial information and make recommendations that significantly impact client wealth. These professionals thrive on complex problem-solving and can communicate technical financial concepts clearly to diverse stakeholders including lawyers, accountants, and corporate executives.

Automation Outlook

While routine data processing and basic financial calculations face automation pressure, the core analytical and advisory functions remain largely human-dependent. Client relationship development and complex investment recommendations require emotional intelligence and contextual judgment that current AI cannot replicate. The emphasis on collaboration with diverse professionals and creation of customized client presentations suggests continued human value in this role.

Market Intelligence — BLS OEWS May 2025
The profession shows strong demand with 361,980 professionals employed nationally, earning a median of $102,740 annually according to BLS OEWS May 2025. Geographic wage variation is significant, ranging from $187,090 in Wyoming to $63,000 in Puerto Rico, reflecting local market conditions and cost of living differences. The Finance and Insurance sector employs the largest concentration with 155,230 professionals, followed by Professional Services with 54,250 positions. Technology integration continues driving demand for analysts proficient in tools like Alteryx, Apache Hive, and advanced Excel modeling, particularly in emerging areas like green finance and environmental investment analysis.
$63,720
10th
$79,290
25th
$102,740
Median
$133,340
75th
$180,860
90th
Highest Paying State
Wyoming
$187,090 median
Geographic Dispersion
2.97x
highest / lowest median
Finance and Insurance 155,230 emp $107,030
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Servi 54,250 emp $101,540
Management of Companies and Enterprises 44,850 emp $101,760
Manufacturing 16,190 emp $101,930
Information 12,440 emp $118,090
Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics May 2025 ↗ · Public Domain · US Government
Skills + Knowledge — O*NET 30.3 Scored Dimensions
§ Essential Skills (importance 1-5)
§ Knowledge Domains (importance 1-5)
Source: O*NET 30.3 Database ↗ · CC BY 4.0
RIASEC Interest Profile + Personality Fit — O*NET 30.3
R
Realistic
1.00
I
Investigative
5.06
TOP FIT
A
Artistic
1.78
S
Social
2.25
E
Enterprising
5.09
TOP FIT
C
Conventional
5.54
TOP FIT
§ Who Thrives
This role attracts individuals with strong conventional and enterprising tendencies who excel at systematic analysis and client relationship building. Successful analysts demonstrate exceptional dependability and attention to detail, as financial accuracy is paramount to client trust and market integrity. They possess the integrity and cautiousness needed to handle sensitive financial information and make recommendations that significantly impact client wealth. These professionals thrive on complex problem-solving and can communicate technical financial concepts clearly to diverse stakeholders including lawyers, accountants, and corporate executives.
Source: O*NET 30.3 Career Interest Types ↗ · Scale: OI Occupational Interests 1-7
Tasks + Detailed Work Activities — O*NET 30.3
Advise clients on aspects of capitalization, such as amounts, sources, or timing.
Advise others on business or operational
Analyze financial or operational performance of companies facing financial difficulties to identify or recommend remedies.
Analyze business or financial data.
Assess companies as investments for clients by examining company facilities.
Identify strategic business investment oEvaluate condition of properties.
Collaborate on projects with other professionals, such as lawyers, accountants, or public relations experts.
Confer with others about financial matte
Collaborate with investment bankers to attract new corporate clients.
Collaborate with others in marketing act
Conduct financial analyses related to investments in green construction or green retrofitting projects.
Analyze risks related to investments in Analyze business or financial data.
Confer with clients to restructure debt, refinance debt, or raise new debt.
Advise others on financial matters.
Create client presentations of plan details.
Present work to clients for approval.
Determine the prices at which securities should be syndicated and offered to the public.
Determine the value of goods or services
Develop and maintain client relationships.
Develop business relationships.
Source: O*NET 30.3 Task Statements + DWA Mappings ↗ · Incumbent-reported · CC BY 4.0
◈ Software Tools — O*NET 30.3 · Hot Technology + In Demand Flagged
ADP Workforce Now
Human resources software
Advanced Portfolio Technologies Report Builder
Financial analysis software
Advanced Portfolio Technologies Simulator
Financial analysis software
Alteryx software
Business intelligence and data analysis
HOT
Analyse-it
Analytical or scientific software
AnalyzerXL
Financial analysis software
Annuities analysis software
Financial analysis software
Apache Hive
Data base management system software
HOT
Apache Pig
Data base management system software
Apple AppleWorks
Spreadsheet software
Apple Keynote
Presentation software
Aspen Graphics Technical Analysis Software
Financial analysis software
BizBench
Financial analysis software
BizPricer
Financial analysis software
Bloomberg Professional
Financial analysis software
Business Forecast Systems Forecast Pro
Financial analysis software
Business intelligence software
Business intelligence and data analysis
Corel QuattroPro
Spreadsheet software
Source: O*NET 30.3 Software Skills ↗ · CC BY 4.0
Career Pathway — Entry · Trajectory · Education
1
Entry
2
Some Prep
3
Medium
4
Considerable
5
Extensive
A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in acco
Entry typically requires a bachelor's degree in finance, economics, accounting, or related field, with many employers preferring candidates with strong quantitative backgrounds and coursework in financial modeling. New analysts often start in junior research positions at investment banks, asset management firms, or corporate finance departments where they learn industry-specific analytical techniques. The CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) designation is highly valued and often pursued within the first few years of employment to demonstrate professional competency.
Experienced analysts commonly advance to senior analyst roles, portfolio management positions, or transition into investment banking or corporate development roles. Many progress to become Investment Fund Managers or Financial Risk Specialists, leveraging their analytical foundation to oversee larger investment portfolios or develop risk management strategies. Some transition into client-facing roles as Personal Financial Advisors or move into executive positions such as Financial Managers where they can apply their market knowledge to broader strategic decisions.
Source: O*NET 30.3 Education + Job Zones ↗ · CC BY 4.0
Live Job Feed — Active Postings
Live Financial and Investment Analysts job postings populate here as the crawler feeds data. The Boise Standard employment crawler indexes ATS platforms directly — Workday, iCIMS, Greenhouse, Lever, Ashby, Taleo — and normalizes every posting to the O*NET ontology.

Postings appear within hours of going live on the source ATS. No aggregator lag. Direct from source.
Browse Business Finance Feed → Submit Open Position →
◈ SEMANTIC MANIFOLD — MULTI-SOURCE WORD FREQUENCY FINGERPRINT
Top 40 terms across five provenance layers: O*NET Tasks · O*NET Dimensions · DWAs · Wikipedia · Inference · Stop words removed · Deterministic · Constitutional Law III
financial analysts investment analyst tendency risk management analysis securities business finance clients side companies corporate others client capital banking research
§ Full Frequency Ranking — 40 terms
TERM COUNT FREQ BAR SOURCE ATTRIBUTION
financial 86 0.0346
wikipedia 56% inference 20%
analysts 50 0.0201
wikipedia 88% inference 12%
investment 47 0.0189
wikipedia 53% inference 28%
analyst 43 0.0173
wikipedia 81% inference 19%
tendency 42 0.0169
onet dimensi 100%
risk 25 0.0101
wikipedia 80% onet dimensi 8%
management 25 0.0101
wikipedia 88% inference 12%
analysis 24 0.0097
wikipedia 92% inference 8%
securities 22 0.0089
wikipedia 77% onet tasks 14%
business 20 0.0081
dwas 60% wikipedia 25%
finance 20 0.0081
wikipedia 75% inference 20%
clients 18 0.0072
wikipedia 39% onet tasks 28%
side 17 0.0068
wikipedia 100%
companies 15 0.0060
wikipedia 53% onet tasks 33%
corporate 15 0.0060
wikipedia 60% inference 27%
others 14 0.0056
onet dimensi 71% dwas 29%
client 12 0.0048
inference 58% wikipedia 25%
capital 12 0.0048
wikipedia 75% onet tasks 17%
banking 12 0.0048
wikipedia 83% onet tasks 8%
research 12 0.0048
wikipedia 83% inference 17%
sell 12 0.0048
wikipedia 100%
investments 11 0.0044
onet tasks 36% wikipedia 27%
services 11 0.0044
wikipedia 45% dwas 36%
responsible 11 0.0044
wikipedia 73% onet dimensi 18%
credit 11 0.0044
wikipedia 100%
buy 11 0.0044
wikipedia 100%
team 10 0.0040
wikipedia 90% onet tasks 10%
bonds 10 0.0040
wikipedia 100%
debt 9 0.0036
wikipedia 56% onet tasks 33%
market 9 0.0036
wikipedia 44% inference 33%
BOISE STANDARD — FINE-TUNING RECORD · Financial and Investment Analysts
13-2051.00 · 8 QA pairs · jsonl · O*NET 30.3 + BLS OEWS
How many Financial and Investment Analysts are currently employed in the United States?
According to BLS OEWS May 2025, there are 361,980 Financial and Investment Analysts employed nationally.
factual BLS OEWS May 2025
What is the median annual salary for a Financial and Investment Analyst?
According to BLS OEWS May 2025, the median annual wage is $102,740 with a 10th percentile of $63,720 and 90th percentile of $180,860.
factual BLS OEWS May 2025
Which state offers the highest median compensation for Financial and Investment Analysts?
Wyoming offers the highest median wage for Financial and Investment Analysts at $187,090 according to BLS OEWS May 2025, significantly above the national median.
market_intel BLS OEWS May 2025
What are the primary industries hiring Financial and Investment Analysts?
According to BLS OEWS May 2025, the top industries are Finance and Insurance, Professional Scientific and Technical Services, and Management of Companies and Enterprises.
market_intel BLS OEWS May 2025
What educational background should I pursue to become a Financial and Investment Analyst?
Entry typically requires a bachelor's degree in finance, economics, accounting, or related field according to BLS career guidance. Many employers prefer candidates with CFA certification or equivalent credentials.
career_advice BLS Career Entry Requirements
Which personality traits are most important for success as a Financial and Investment Analyst?
This role attracts individuals with strong conventional and enterprising tendencies (C:5.54, E:5.09 RIASEC scores) who excel at systematic analysis. Top work styles include Dependability, Attention to Detail, and Integrity.
career_advice RIASEC AssessmentWork Styles Analysis
How does the earning potential for Financial and Investment Analysts compare to Personal Financial Advisors?
Financial and Investment Analysts earn a median of $102,740 according to BLS OEWS May 2025. Related role Personal Financial Advisors typically earn comparable compensation with similar growth trajectories in the finance sector.
comparative BLS OEWS May 2025Related Occupations Analysis
What technical software skills are most valuable for this profession?
Critical tools include Alteryx software, Apache Hive, Advanced Portfolio Technologies platforms, and Analyse-it. Proficiency in data analysis and financial modeling software is essential for competitive positioning.
comparative Software Tools AnalysisIndustry Technology Requirements
◈ Boise Standard Employment Graph · 13-2051.00 · minted 2026-06-02T16:18:30Z · Sources: O*NET 30.3 (CC BY 4.0) · BLS OEWS May 2025 (Public Domain) · BS: https://boisestandard.org/employment/13-2051-financial_and_investment_analysts
Boise Standard — Employment Intelligence
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Boise Standard · The Standard of Information · boisestandard.org ↗
Provenance Window — Full Source Record · 13-2051.00 · Financial and Investment Analysts 7 source blocks · click to expand
O*NET Identity onetonline.org ↗ · O*NET 30.3 · CC BY 4.0 · retrieved 2026-06-02
[('onet_soc_code', '13-2051.00'), ('soc_code', '13-2051'), ('title', 'Financial and Investment Analysts'), ('vertical', 'business_finance'), ('job_zone', '4'), ('job_zone_name', 'Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed'), ('job_zone_exp', 'A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an a'), ('description', 'Conduct quantitative analyses of information involving investment programs or financial data of public or private institutions, including valuation of businesses.'), ('bundle_version', '1'), ('built_at', '2026-06-02T16:18:30Z')]
O*NET Task Statements (26 tasks, 0 emerging) O*NET 30.3 Task Statements · Incumbent-reported · CC BY 4.0
[None] Advise clients on aspects of capitalization, such as amounts, sources, or timing.
  DWAs: Advise others on business or operational matters.

[None] Analyze financial or operational performance of companies facing financial difficulties to identify or recommend remedies.
  DWAs: Analyze business or financial data.

[None] Assess companies as investments for clients by examining company facilities.
  DWAs: Identify strategic business investment opportunities. | Evaluate condition of properties.

[None] Collaborate on projects with other professionals, such as lawyers, accountants, or public relations experts.
  DWAs: Confer with others about financial matters.

[None] Collaborate with investment bankers to attract new corporate clients.
  DWAs: Collaborate with others in marketing activities.

[None] Conduct financial analyses related to investments in green construction or green retrofitting projects.
  DWAs: Analyze risks related to investments in green technology. | Analyze business or financial data.

[None] Confer with clients to restructure debt, refinance debt, or raise new debt.
  DWAs: Advise others on financial matters.

[None] Create client presentations of plan details.
  DWAs: Present work to clients for approval.

[None] Determine the prices at which securities should be syndicated and offered to the public.
  DWAs: Determine the value of goods or services.

[None] Develop and maintain client relationships.
  DWAs: Develop business relationships.

[None] Draw charts and graphs, using computer spreadsheets, to illustrate technical reports.
  DWAs: Create images of data, locations, or products.

[None] Employ financial models to develop solutions to financial problems or to assess the financial or capital impact of transactions.
  DWAs: Apply mathematical models of financial or business conditions.

[None] Evaluate and compare the relative quality of various securities in a given industry.
  DWAs: Determine the value of goods or services.

[None] Evaluate capital needs of clients and assess market conditions to inform structuring of financial packages.
  DWAs: Assess financial status of clients. | Analyze market conditions or trends.

[None] Inform investment decisions by analyzing financial information to forecast business, industry, or economic conditions.
  DWAs: Apply mathematical models of financial or business conditions. | Analyze business or financial data.

[None] Interpret data on price, yield, stability, future investment-risk trends, economic influences, and other factors affecting investment programs.
  DWAs: Assess risks to business operations. | Analyze business or financial data.

[None] Monitor developments in the fields of industrial technology, business, finance, and economic theory.
  DWAs: Analyze industry trends.

[None] Monitor fundamental economic, industrial, and corporate developments by analyzing information from financial publications and services, investment banking firms, government agencies, trade publications, company sources, or personal interviews.
  DWAs: Analyze industry trends.

[None] Perform securities valuation or pricing.
  DWAs: Determine the value of goods or services.

[None] Prepare all materials for transactions or execution of deals.
  DWAs: Prepare contracts or other transaction documents.

[None] Prepare plans of action for investment, using financial analyses.
  DWAs: Develop financial or business plans.

[None] Present oral or written reports on general economic trends, individual corporations, and entire industries.
  DWAs: Present business-related information to audiences.

[None] Purchase investments for companies in accordance with company policy.
  DWAs: Purchase products or services.

[None] Recommend investments and investment timing to companies, investment firm staff, or the public.
  DWAs: Recommend investments to clients.

[None] Specialize in green financial instruments, such as socially responsible mutual funds or exchange-traded funds (ETF) that are comprised of green companies.
  DWAs: Update professional knowledge.

[None] Supervise, train, or mentor junior team members.
  DWAs: Train personnel to enhance job skills. | Supervise employees.
O*NET Scored Dimensions — Skills, Knowledge, Abilities, Work Activities O*NET 30.3 · CC BY 4.0 · domain_source: Incumbent/Analyst/Machine Learning
--- WORK STYLES ---
  Dependability (imp:6.00) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Attention to Detail (imp:5.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Integrity (imp:4.00) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Cautiousness (imp:3.00) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Attention to Detail (imp:3.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Integrity (imp:2.80) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Dependability (imp:2.59) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Intellectual Curiosity (imp:2.50) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Achievement Orientation (imp:2.24) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Cautiousness (imp:2.03) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Intellectual Curiosity (imp:2.00) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Tolerance for Ambiguity (imp:1.83) — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Perseverance (imp:1.80) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Stress Tolerance (imp:1.80) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Self-Confidence (imp:1.70) — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Self-Control (imp:1.53) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Initiative (imp:1.50) — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Adaptability (imp:1.48) — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Social Orientation (imp:1.43) — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Innovation (imp:1.39) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Achievement Orientation (imp:1.00) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Leadership Orientation (imp:1.00) — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Cooperation (imp:1.00) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Sincerity (imp:0.63) — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Empathy (imp:0.58) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Optimism (imp:0.32) — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Innovation () — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Tolerance for Ambiguity () — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Initiative () — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Adaptability () — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Self-Confidence () — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Perseverance () — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Leadership Orientation () — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Humility () — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Sincerity () — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Empathy () — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Cooperation () — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Optimism () — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Social Orientation () — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Stress Tolerance () — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Self-Control () — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Humility (imp:-0.35) — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
BLS OEWS May 2025 — 361,980 employed nationally bls.gov/oes ↗ · Public Domain · US Government · retrieved 2026-06-02
--- NATIONAL WAGES ---
  total_employment : 361,980
  annual_median    : $102,740
  annual_pct10     : $63,720
  annual_pct25     : $79,290
  annual_pct75     : $133,340
  annual_pct90     : $180,860
  annual_mean      : $116,800
  hourly_median    : $49.40

--- GEOGRAPHIC DISPERSION ---
  highest_state    : Wyoming ($187,090)
  lowest_state     : Puerto Rico ($63,000)
  dispersion_ratio : 2.970x

--- TOP STATES BY WAGE (53 total) ---
  Finance and Insurance                    emp:  155,230  median: $ 107,030
  Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services emp:   54,250  median: $ 101,540
  Management of Companies and Enterprises  emp:   44,850  median: $ 101,760
  Manufacturing                            emp:   16,190  median: $ 101,930
  Information                              emp:   12,440  median: $ 118,090
  Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) emp:   12,420  median: $  83,920
  Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp:   11,580  median: $  98,510
  Real Estate and Rental and Leasing       emp:   11,400  median: $ 104,500
  Health Care and Social Assistance        emp:   10,630  median: $  91,790
  Educational Services                     emp:   10,270  median: $  85,370

--- TOP INDUSTRIES BY EMPLOYMENT (19 total) ---
  Finance and Insurance                    emp:  155,230  median: $ 107,030
  Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services emp:   54,250  median: $ 101,540
  Management of Companies and Enterprises  emp:   44,850  median: $ 101,760
  Manufacturing                            emp:   16,190  median: $ 101,930
  Information                              emp:   12,440  median: $ 118,090
  Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) emp:   12,420  median: $  83,920
  Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp:   11,580  median: $  98,510
  Real Estate and Rental and Leasing       emp:   11,400  median: $ 104,500
  Health Care and Social Assistance        emp:   10,630  median: $  91,790
  Educational Services                     emp:   10,270  median: $  85,370
Wikipedia — Financial analyst (2,584 words) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Financial_analyst ↗ · CC BY-SA 4.0
exact_match_status : found
matched_title      : Financial analyst
match_score        : 0.6800
wikidata_qid       : Q1416279
word_count         : 2,584
wikipedia_url      : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Financial_analyst
license            : CC BY-SA 4.0
fetched_at         : 2026-06-02T20:16:37.579833Z

--- WIKIPEDIA FULL TEXT ---
A financial analyst is a professional undertaking financial analysis for external or internal clients as a core feature of the job. The role may specifically be titled securities analyst, research analyst, equity analyst, investment analyst, or ratings analyst. The job title is a broad one:
In banking, and industry more generally, various other analyst-roles cover financial management and (credit) risk management, as opposed to focusing on investments and valuation.


== Role ==
Financial analysts can work in a variety of industries. A large proportion of them are employed by mutual- and pension funds, hedge funds, securities firms, banks, investment banks, insurance companies, and other businesses, helping these companies or their clients make investment decisions. In corporate roles, financial analysts perform budget, revenue and cost modelling and analytics as part of their responsibilities; credit analysis is likewise a distinct area.
Financial analysts invariably use spreadsheets (and statistical software packages) to analyze financial data, spot trends, and develop forecasts. The analyst often also meets with company officials to gain a better insight into a company's prospects and to determine the company's managerial effectiveness.
Analysts specializing in advanced mathematical modeling and programming are referred to as "quants"; see Finance § Quantitative finance for an overview, and Quantitative analysis (finance) § Types  for the various roles.


=== Securities firms ===

In a stock brokerage house or investment bank, the Investment Analyst will read company financial statements -  applying financial statement analysis  -  and analyze commodity prices, sales, costs, expenses, and tax rates in order to determine a company's value and project future earnings. On the basis of their results, they write reports and make presentations, usually making recommendations—a "trade idea"—to buy or sell a particular investment or security.
Typically, at the end of the assessment, an analyst would provide a rating recommending or investment action: to buy, sell, or hold the security. Senior analysts may actually make the decision to buy or sell for the company or client if they are the ones responsible for managing the assets. Other, "junior" analysts use the data to model and measure the financial risks associated with making a particular investment decision. See Securities research § Career path.
Usually, financial analysts study a specific industry—called "sector specialists"—assessing current trends in business practices, products, and industry competition. Among the industries with the most analyst coverage are biotechnology, financial services, energy, mining and resources, and computer hardware, software and services. Analysts must keep abreast of new regulations or policies that may affect the industry, as well as monitor the economy to determine its effect on earnings. As equity analysts divide securities by distinct sectors, companies which fall outside or across multiple sectors are sometimes neglected; the impact on returns (and on "earnings management") here is debated.
Analysts also specialize in fixed income. Similar to equity analysts, fixed income analysts assess the value and analyze the risks of various securities, here focusing on interest rate- and fixed income securities, particularly bonds. They may further specialize, but here by issuer-type: i.e. municipal bonds, government bonds, and corporate bonds; the latter specialization is often decomposed into convertible bonds, high-yield bonds, and distressed bonds; some cover syndicated loans. The reporting focuses on the ability of the issuer to make payments—similar to the credit analysis described below—but also on the relative value of the security in question, and in context of the overall market and yield curve. See Fixed income analysis.
Analysts are generally divided into 'sell-side' and 'buy-side'. The buy-side is sometimes considered more prestigious, professional, and scholarly, while the sell-side may be higher-paid and more like a sales and marketing role. It is common to begin careers on the sell-side at large banks then move to the buy-side at a fund.

A sell-side analyst's work is not used by its employer to invest directly, rather it is sold either for money or for other benefits by the employer to buy-side organizations. Sell-side research is often used as 'soft money' rather than sold directly, for example provided to preferred clients in return for business. Writing reports or notes expressing opinions is always a part of "sell-side" (brokerage) analyst job and is often not required for "buy-side" (investment firms) analysts. It is sometimes used to promote the companies being researched when the sell-side has some other interest in them, as a form of marketing, which can lead to conflicts of interest.
A buy-side analyst,  such as a fund manager, works for a company which buys and holds stocks itself, on the analyst's recommendation. As they gain experience, analysts often move from buy-side research, concerning individual securities and sectors, into portfolio management itself, selecting the mix of investments for a company's portfolio. They may also become fund managers and manage large investment portfolios for individual investors.
Typically, analysts use financial statements analysis, including accounting analysis and ratio analysis, but also consider overall economic situation and specific factors including interest rates, employment, production, management and tactical evaluation of the market environment. Analysts obtain information by studying public records and filings by the company, as well as by participating in public earnings calls where they can ask direct questions to the management. Additional information can be also received in small group or one-on-one meetings with senior members of management teams. However, in many markets such information gathering became difficult and potentially illegal due to legislative changes brought upon by corporate scandals in the early 2000s. One example is Regulation FD (Fair Disclosure) in the United States. Many other developed countries also adopted similar rules.
Analyst performance is ranked by a range of services such as StarMine owned by Thomson Reuters or Institutional Investor magazine. Research by Numis found that small companies with the most analyst coverage outperformed peers by 2.5% — while those with low coverage underperformed by 0.7%.
See Neglected firm effect.


=== Investment Banking ===

Financial analysts in the investment banking departments of securities or banking firms often work in teams, analyzing the future prospects of companies, and selling shares to the public for the first time via an initial public offering (IPO), or issuing bonds; this task is often identical to that of a securities analyst. On this basis, they will then make presentations to prospective investors re the merits of investing in the new company, presenting their "pitch books" on a "roadshow"; see bookrunner and securities underwriting. An additional component of the IB role here: analysts ensure that all forms and written materials necessary for compliance with Securities and Exchange Commission regulations are accurate and complete.
Many IB analysts work in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) departments, similarly preparing analyses on the costs and benefits of a proposed merger or takeover, and assisting with regulatory submissions; here there are both buy-side- and sell-side analysts. See Chinese wall § Finance. The analysis is somewhat more specialized than for an IPO, as it must consider valuation pre- and post-merger, a function of efficiencies, synergies, or increased market share, financing employed, including M&A specific considerations such as the swap ratio, and tax optimization, both re the transaction and for the new entity.
At more senior levels, vice presidents (VPs) or Senior VPs will manage the workf

--- SEMANTIC NEIGHBORS (5) ---

  Title: Chartered Financial Analyst (similarity: 0.5667)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chartered_Financial_Analyst
  QID: Q1067869
  Extract: The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) program is a postgraduate professional certification offered internationally by the US-based CFA Institute to investment and financial professionals. The program teaches a wide range of subjects relating to advanced investment analysis—including business analysi

  Title: CFA Institute (similarity: 0.3478)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CFA_Institute
  QID: Q964941
  Extract: CFA Institute is an American, not-for-profit professional organization that provides finance education to investment professionals. CFA Institute aims to promote standards in ethics, education, and professional excellence in the global investment services industry. Since 1945, CFA Institute has publ

  Title: Investment Analysts Society of South Africa (similarity: 0.5000)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Investment_Analysts_Society_of_South_Africa
  QID: Q135455887
  Extract: The Investment Analysts Society of South Africa (IASSA) is 

a non profit professional society for Investment analysts and Fund managers within the South African financial markets.
Services to its members include 

access to JSE listed company presentations, and continuing professional development a

  Title: Analyst (similarity: 0.3500)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Analyst
  QID: Q5669212
  Extract: An analyst is an individual who performs analysis of a topic. The term may refer to:

  Title: News analyst (similarity: 0.4889)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/News_analyst
  QID: Q12036294
  Extract: A news analyst examines, analyses and interprets broadcast news received from various sources. Sometimes also called newscasters or news anchor or Broadcast News Analyst. News analysts write commentaries, columns, or scripts.
They coordinate and sometimes serve as an anchor on news broadcast program
Claude Inference — claude-sonnet-4-20250514 · confidence:high · $0.0404 inferred_at: 2026-06-03T13:34:57 UTC · Boise Standard inference pipeline v1.0
model_pass1          : claude-sonnet-4-20250514
model_pass2          : claude-haiku-4-5-20251001
inference_confidence : high
confidence_notes     : Strong confidence due to comprehensive O*NET data, clear Wikipedia match, robust wage data from BLS OEWS May 2025, and well-defined career pathways in the financial services industry.
inferred_at          : 2026-06-03T13:34:57.274354+00:00
tokens_input         : 3,408
tokens_output        : 3,954
cost_usd             : $0.040351
wikipedia_used       : True
wikipedia_title      : Financial analyst
wikipedia_note       : Wikipedia confirms the broad nature of the financial analyst role, encompassing securities analyst, research analyst, equity analyst, investment analyst, and ratings analyst positions. This aligns with the diverse job titles and analytical functions described in the O*NET data.

--- PROSE FIELDS ---

ROLE SUMMARY:
Financial and Investment Analysts conduct quantitative analyses of investment programs and financial data for public and private institutions, including business valuations. According to BLS OEWS May 2025, these professionals earn a median annual salary of $102,740 with 361,980 employed nationwide. They serve as critical intermediaries between capital markets and investment decisions, providing analytical insights that guide financial strategies and investment choices.

DAY IN THE LIFE:
Financial analysts spend their days analyzing financial performance of companies facing difficulties to recommend remedies and conducting financial analyses related to green construction investments. They create client presentations detailing investment plans and collaborate with investment bankers to attract new corporate clients. Much of their time involves conferring with clients to restructure or refinance debt while determining appropriate pricing for securities offerings. They regularly assess companies as potential investments by examining facilities and financial statements, then advise clients on capitalization aspects including amounts, sources, and timing.

WHO THRIVES:
This role attracts individuals with strong conventional and enterprising tendencies who excel at systematic analysis and client relationship building. Successful analysts demonstrate exceptional dependability and attention to detail, as financial accuracy is paramount to client trust and market integrity. They possess the integrity and cautiousness needed to handle sensitive financial information and make recommendations that significantly impact client wealth. These professionals thrive on complex problem-solving and can communicate technical financial concepts clearly to diverse stakeholders including lawyers, accountants, and corporate executives.

CAREER ENTRY:
Entry typically requires a bachelor's degree in finance, economics, accounting, or related field, with many employers preferring candidates with strong quantitative backgrounds and coursework in financial modeling. New analysts often start in junior research positions at investment banks, asset management firms, or corporate finance departments where they learn industry-specific analytical techniques. The CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) designation is highly valued and often pursued within the first few years of employment to demonstrate professional competency.

CAREER TRAJECTORY:
Experienced analysts commonly advance to senior analyst roles, portfolio management positions, or transition into investment banking or corporate development roles. Many progress to become Investment Fund Managers or Financial Risk Specialists, leveraging their analytical foundation to oversee larger investment portfolios or develop risk management strategies. Some transition into client-facing roles as Personal Financial Advisors or move into executive positions such as Financial Managers where they can apply their market knowledge to broader strategic decisions.

MARKET INTELLIGENCE:
The profession shows strong demand with 361,980 professionals employed nationally, earning a median of $102,740 annually according to BLS OEWS May 2025. Geographic wage variation is significant, ranging from $187,090 in Wyoming to $63,000 in Puerto Rico, reflecting local market conditions and cost of living differences. The Finance and Insurance sector employs the largest concentration with 155,230 professionals, followed by Professional Services with 54,250 positions. Technology integration continues driving demand for analysts proficient in tools like Alteryx, Apache Hive, and advanced Excel modeling, particularly in emerging areas like green finance and environmental investment analysis.

AUTOMATION OUTLOOK:
While routine data processing and basic financial calculations face automation pressure, the core analytical and advisory functions remain largely human-dependent. Client relationship development and complex investment recommendations require emotional intelligence and contextual judgment that current AI cannot replicate. The emphasis on collaboration with diverse professionals and creation of customized client presentations suggests continued human value in this role.

--- REASONED EDGES ---
  [career_pathway] Personal Financial Advisors (13-2052.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both roles involve advising clients on financial matters and developing client relationships, with analysts often transitioning to advisory roles.
    data: Shared client advisory tasks
    data: Similar wage ranges
    data: Common career progression path
  [career_pathway] Investment Fund Managers (11-3031.03) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Investment analysts commonly advance to fund management roles, applying their analytical skills to portfolio oversight.
    data: Natural career progression
    data: Shared investment analysis skills
    data: Similar industry focus
  [skill_overlap] Financial Risk Specialists (13-2054.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both roles require quantitative financial analysis and risk assessment capabilities in institutional settings.
    data: Shared analytical tasks
    data: Common work activities
    data: Similar educational requirements
  [task_similarity] Financial Quantitative Analysts (13-2099.01) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both conduct quantitative analyses of financial data and investment programs using similar analytical methodologies.
    data: Quantitative analysis focus
    data: Financial data analysis
    data: Investment program evaluation
  [transferable_skill] Business Intelligence Analysts (15-2051.01) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both roles emphasize data analysis and business insights, with shared technology tools like Alteryx and SPSS.
    data: Data analysis skills
    data: Shared technology tools
    data: Business insight generation

--- NORMALIZER SIGNALS ---
  match_keywords   : ['financial analyst', 'investment analyst', 'equity analyst', 'research analyst', 'securities analyst', 'chartered financial analyst', 'corporate financial analyst', 'quantitative analyst']
  exclude_keywords : ['credit analyst', 'budget analyst', 'operations analyst', 'financial advisor', 'loan officer']
  title_patterns   : ['*Financial Analyst*', '*Investment Analyst*', '*Equity Analyst*', '*Research Analyst*', '*Securities Analyst*']
  common_variations: ['CFA', 'financial research analyst', 'investment research analyst', 'equity research analyst', 'buy-side analyst', 'sell-side analyst', 'portfolio analyst', 'valuation analyst']
Semantic Manifold — 40 terms · 5 provenance layers employment_word_extractor.py · sources: onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference · Constitutional Law III
total_terms    : 40
top_words      : ['financial', 'analysts', 'investment', 'analyst', 'tendency', 'risk', 'management', 'analysis', 'securities', 'business', 'finance', 'clients', 'side', 'companies', 'corporate', 'others', 'client', 'capital', 'banking', 'research']
source_layers  : onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference

TERM                    COUNT     FREQ  DOMINANT SOURCE      SOURCE BREAKDOWN
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
financial                  86  0.03464  wikipedia            wikipedia:56%  inference:20%  onet_tasks:13%
analysts                   50  0.02014  wikipedia            wikipedia:88%  inference:12%
investment                 47  0.01893  wikipedia            wikipedia:53%  inference:28%  onet_tasks:17%
analyst                    43  0.01732  wikipedia            wikipedia:81%  inference:19%
tendency                   42  0.01691  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
risk                       25  0.01007  wikipedia            wikipedia:80%  onet_dimensions:8%  inference:8%
management                 25  0.01007  wikipedia            wikipedia:88%  inference:12%
analysis                   24  0.00967  wikipedia            wikipedia:92%  inference:8%
securities                 22  0.00886  wikipedia            wikipedia:77%  onet_tasks:14%  inference:9%
business                   20  0.00805  dwas                 dwas:60%  wikipedia:25%  onet_tasks:10%
finance                    20  0.00805  wikipedia            wikipedia:75%  inference:20%  onet_tasks:5%
clients                    18  0.00725  wikipedia            wikipedia:39%  onet_tasks:28%  dwas:17%
side                       17  0.00685  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
companies                  15  0.00604  wikipedia            wikipedia:53%  onet_tasks:33%  inference:13%
corporate                  15  0.00604  wikipedia            wikipedia:60%  inference:27%  onet_tasks:13%
others                     14  0.00564  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:71%  dwas:29%
client                     12  0.00483  inference            inference:58%  wikipedia:25%  onet_tasks:17%
capital                    12  0.00483  wikipedia            wikipedia:75%  onet_tasks:17%  inference:8%
banking                    12  0.00483  wikipedia            wikipedia:83%  onet_tasks:8%  inference:8%
research                   12  0.00483  wikipedia            wikipedia:83%  inference:17%
sell                       12  0.00483  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
investments                11  0.00443  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:36%  wikipedia:27%  dwas:18%
services                   11  0.00443  wikipedia            wikipedia:45%  dwas:36%  onet_tasks:9%
responsible                11  0.00443  wikipedia            wikipedia:73%  onet_dimensions:18%  onet_tasks:9%
credit                     11  0.00443  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
buy                        11  0.00443  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
team                       10  0.00403  wikipedia            wikipedia:90%  onet_tasks:10%
bonds                      10  0.00403  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
debt                        9  0.00363  wikipedia            wikipedia:56%  onet_tasks:33%  inference:11%
market                      9  0.00363  wikipedia            wikipedia:44%  inference:33%  onet_tasks:11%
senior                      9  0.00363  wikipedia            wikipedia:89%  inference:11%
cfa                         9  0.00363  wikipedia            wikipedia:89%  inference:11%
professionals               8  0.00322  inference            inference:62%  wikipedia:25%  onet_tasks:12%
public                      8  0.00322  wikipedia            wikipedia:50%  onet_tasks:38%  inference:12%
decisions                   8  0.00322  wikipedia            wikipedia:38%  onet_dimensions:25%  inference:25%
economic                    8  0.00322  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:62%  wikipedia:38%
value                       8  0.00322  wikipedia            wikipedia:50%  dwas:38%  inference:12%
basis                       8  0.00322  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
accounting                  8  0.00322  wikipedia            wikipedia:88%  inference:12%
news                        8  0.00322  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
◈ Boise Standard Employment Graph · 13-2051.00 · built 2026-06-02 · Sources declared above are authoritative originals. This page synthesizes but does not replace them. Every claim traceable. Full provenance. Constitutional Law I.
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