Mutual Fund Analysts
Overview
Introduction
Mutual fund analysts conduct research on stocks, bonds, and other securities; companies; and industry sectors (such as information technology or health-care imaging equipment manufacturers) to help portfolio managers make investment decisions. Approximately 329,500 financial analysts (including those who work in the mutual fund industry) are employed in the United States. Analysts may also be known as buy-side financial analysts and research analysts.
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
New college graduates with a bachelor’s degree in finance earned an average starting salary of $58,472 in winter 2020, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers.
The U.S. Department of Labor reports that financial analysts earned median annual salaries of $85,660 in May 2018. Earnings ranged from less than $52,540 to $167,420 or more.
Mutual fund analysts ...
Work Environment
Most analysts work full time, and some often work more tha 40 hours per week. Analysts may need to work at night and on weekends to complete projects or meet deadlines. Most analysts work in typical office settings with access to the latest technology. Some large mutual fund companies offer perks such as on-site gyms, cafeterias, and child care. Many financial analysts enjoy the fast-paced, int...
Outlook
Employment opportunities for financial analysts who work for securities, commodities, and other financial investment and related firms are expected to grow about as fast as the average for all careers through 2028, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). The DOL says that “having certifications and a graduate degree can significantly improve an applicant’s prospects.”
In 2020, <...