Financial Advisor
Overview
Financial Advisors buy and sell securities or commodities for investment and trading firms, and offer financial services to businesses and individuals. They may advise clients on stocks, bonds, managed funds, commodities, and market conditions to help them make informed investment decisions.
Did you know?
To work as a Financial Services Sales Agent in Australia, you must obtain relevant licences through ASIC (Australian Securities and Investments Commission). This typically involves completing approved training courses and passing examinations to demonstrate your knowledge of financial products and regulations.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$105,000 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Active Learning
Key Responsibilities
- Obtains information on securities, market conditions, government regulations and financial circumstances of clients
- Interprets data from securities reports, financial periodicals and stock-quotation viewer screens
- Analyses financial markets and financial market products
- Provides information and offers advice on financial market matters and market conditions, as well as the history and prospects of corporations
- Executes buy and sell orders in the market place on behalf of clients
- Relays trade information to clients such as the number of contracts bought and sold and the price
- Monitors stock prices and market changes, and bids for securities and bonds
- Records and transmits buy and sell orders
- Calculates and records costs of transactions
Career Considerations
Licensing Requirements in Australia
To work as a Financial Services Sales Agent in Australia, you must obtain relevant licences through ASIC (Australian Securities and Investments Commission). This typically involves completing approved training courses and passing examinations to demonstrate your knowledge of financial products and regulations.
Educational Pathways and Skills Development
Consider pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, or Business. Strong mathematical skills, analytical thinking, and excellent communication abilities are essential. Many professionals also complete additional certifications in financial planning or investment analysis.
Career Progression and Specialisation
Entry-level positions often start as junior advisors or support roles. With experience, you can specialise in areas like wealth management, corporate finance, or become a senior financial advisor. Some professionals eventually start their own financial advisory firms.