Investment analyst : Training

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1. Job description
2. Salary and conditions
3. Entry requirements
4. Training
5. Career development
6. Employers and vacancy …
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• Investment consultant: Jo

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SIO is the professional body that represents the investment industry in Scotland. Since our founding nearly ten years ago, we’ve helped an enormous number of graduates begin challenging careers in our industry by educating them about our sector and providing links to companies, jobs and training.

Search for jobs with Scottish Investment Operations.

Training varies according to the nature and, particularly, the size of the company. Larger companies are likely to offer a structured training programme for graduate trainees. On-the-job training will be a significant feature. A trainee will usually be assigned to a specific team or to an individual within the team, e.g. a senior analyst.

Analysts in front-office roles, such as advising and dealing in securities, derivatives and investments, take Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI)  qualifications. These include regulatory examinations that must be passed before analysts are legally entitled to give financial advice.

The Investment Management Certificate (IMC)  of the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Society of the UK (CFA UK) , which covers the regulations that investment companies and their staff must adhere to in the UK, is a minimum requirement for those working in the investment management field. Graduates joining investment management companies are, therefore, likely to take the certificate during their training.

Most of the investment banks now require their analysts to take the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) programme, which leads to a CFA charter. The CFA programme originated in the USA and has growing recognition globally. It is administered by the CFA Institute . Completing the CFA programme generally takes four years.

Employers in the investment management area often assist employees with their studies, offering financial support and time off for study and examinations. The IMC is a requirement of the Financial Services Authority (FSA)  but it is also in the employer's interest to encourage staff to develop their skills and knowledge.