I want to make my career in finance and wealth management and want to become a financial analyst & investment expert, what are the pathways?

One must have at least a Bachelors degree preferably in a finance-related major, such as accounting or economics. Furthermore, it has become nearly compulsory that the aspirant has a certification in any one of- CFP CFA (most popular), CFS, CIMA, or the CLU courses though MBA may fill the requirement of these certifications in many cases. Apart from this, the aspirant should have solid analytical, valuation, marketing and communication skills and anin-depth understanding of companies. He should also be capable of building financial models and working on software such as MS Excel, ERPs, and SAS. To help kick-start the career in this field, it is advisable to enrol in training programs that provide these certifications and skills. One can easily find financial analysis courses online (<a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://www.imarticus.org" style='word-wrap:break-word;'>https://www.imarticus.org</a>). Expand your reach Networking forms the roots of the financial world and therefore is one of the most important elements required to break into an industry. Networking can provide an analyst with a better assessment of a company and exposure to opportunities. Follow current events As an analyst works on data- past and present, the aspirant should keep himself fresh on the present scenario of markets, investment banks. One can simply read/watch the business news regularly and keep notes. This also helps in keeping up interesting conversations related to the industry when networking with people. Start and Maintain a Financial Blog The simple clause of sharing what you learn with the world is rewarding. While you improve your understanding of the topic, you also improve your networks, help others learn and remain motivated. A simple blog on WordPress, Medium can serve this purpose. One can use platforms like SeekingAlfa to publish their research on the markets. These articles may be added as achievements on the resume and can make great discussion points in financial analyst interviews. Use a trading simulator Trading stock is a risky business. Before the aspirant can advise others regarding investments, he/she should have a practical understanding of the market dynamics. Gain Experience from internships Most investment firms offer summer internships to students, many of which even allow full-time job prospects. Such an internship can bring the aspirant closer to the industry. Even when the internship is unpaid, the experience gained in such field work is invaluable. One can seek his/her university's career advisors for such opportunities.

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