What is a financial analyst ?

A financial analyst evaluates and analyzes the financial situation of a company or project. They base their work on financial, economic, and social calculations and indicators. The goal is to anticipate future developments and advise company executives on profitable investments to ensure the profitability of their operations.

Adept with numbers, they thoroughly examine a company's financial statements to assess its profitability for investors. This expert diagnoses companies from various angles: profitability, human resources, operations, and organization to identify obstacles to their economic growth.

The financial analyst typically works with other financial professionals such as economists, quantitative analysts, extra-financial analysts, and accountants. They also regularly interact with managers (chief financial officer, general managers) of companies that provide financial data. Based on this data, they conduct a study and financial valuation of the company.

Financial analysts can work in a variety of industries, including retail, banking, and microfinance, wealth management, and administration. Many financial analysts work for brokerage firms, where their role involves making informed recommendations about buying or selling securities. Indeed, the demand for skilled analysts is growing as companies seek to optimize their financial performance.

The job of a financial analyst is both challenging and rewarding, placing individuals at the heart of the finance industry where they analyze financial data, guide decision-making, and identify profitable opportunities. In an investment industry filled with potential, analysts must leverage their skills in financial modeling and quantitative finance to maximize returns while managing risk. This position demands not only technical expertise but also strategic insight. Whether on the buy side or sell side, financial analysts provide essential services in investment management, working with stock data, credit risk assessments, and more to support long-term growth for their organizations.

Financial analysts play a vital role in dissecting financial statements, forecasting market trends, and supporting strategic goals. They work with fund managers and investment professionals to make informed recommendations. emlyon business school offers specialized courses to help aspiring analysts build these essential skills. With experience and education, analysts can achieve coveted titles like CFA charterholder, open doors to new job opportunities, and enjoy competitive salaries in this fast-evolving field.

For those interested in a career as a financial analyst, the path begins with education and experience. A solid foundation in finance, accounting, and economics is essential. At emlyon business school, students can learn how to develop financial models, conduct data analysis, and understand financial statements. These skills are crucial for forecasting economic trends and advising clients on investment opportunities.

The financial analyst career path often leads to senior roles, such as portfolio manager or senior analyst. These positions require extensive knowledge of financial markets and the ability to make strategic decisions. With experience, financial analysts may also move into other financial sectors, such as corporate finance or investment banking. The CFA Institute offers the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation, which is highly respected and can significantly boost career prospects.

At emlyon business school, the Master in Management - Grande Ecole program has been designed to offer a wide range of career opportunities. Aspiring financial analysts can pursue this high-level MiM degree, which aims at excellence in general management with progressive and customized specialization. This program lasts three to four years, is taught in French and English, and includes an extensive internship period to encourage experimentation and professionalization.