Investments

Securities markets are also important components of an efficient financial system. The primary securities market facilities raising funds by issuing new debt and equity securities. The secondary market for securities facilities the transfer of ownership of existing securities among investors.

Institutions and Markets

Financial institutions and financial markets are necessary components of an efficient financial system. Institutions perform an important financial intermediation role by gathering the savings of individuals and then lending the pooled savings to businesses that want to make investments.

Securities Markets and Investment Firms

          Securities firms and various investment-related businesses provide opportunities to start a finance career in the investment area. Opportunities include buying and selling seasoned securities, analyzing securities for investment potential, marketing new securities issues, and even helping individuals plan and manage their personal financial resources. Entry-level career opportunities include:

• Stockbroker (account executive): involves assisting clients in purchasing stocks and bonds and building wealth.
• Security analyst: involves analyzing and making recommendations on the investment potential of specific securities.
• Investment banking analyst: involves analyzing individual client insurance needs and investment plans to meet retirement goals.

          While we have focused on entry-level careers in profit-motivated businesses and financial organizations, careers in finance are also available in government or not-for-profit organizations. Finance opportunities at the federal or state government levels include managing cash funds, making asset expenditure decisions, and issuing debt securities to raise funds. Hospitals and other not-for-profit organizations also need expert financial managers to manage assets, control costs, and obtain funds. Financial and other analyst are hired both by government units and not-for-profit organizations to perform these tasks.

Contractual Savings and Real Property Organizations

          Insurance companies, pension funds, and real estate firms also provide opportunities for starting a career in finance. These institutions need a variety of employees willing to blend marketing or selling efforts with financial expertise. Entry-level career opportunities include:

• Insurance agent (broker): involves selling insurance to individuals and businesses and participating in the processing of claims.
• Research analyst: involves analyzing the investment potential of real property and securities for pension fund holdings.
• Real state agent (broker): involves marketing and selling or leasing residential or commercial property.
• Mortgage analyst: involves analyzing real estate loan applications and assisting in the arranging of mortgage financing.

Depository Financial institutions

          Banks and other depository institutions offer the opportunity to start a finance career in consumer or commercial lending. Banks also hold and manage trust funds for individuals and other organizations. Entry-level career opportunities include:

• Loan analyst: evaluating consumer and or/commercial loan applications.
• Bank teller: involves assisting customer with their day-to-day checking and banking transactions.
• Investments research analyst: involves conducting research on investment opportunities for a bank trust department.