Financial Planners/Investment Advisors

Individuals who provide analysis and advice for businesses and individuals to help them with their investment decisions. Financial analysts assess the economic performance of companies and industries for firms and institutions with money to invest. They work for banks, insurance companies, mutual and pension funds, securities firms and other businesses and help these companies or their clients make investment decisions. Financial analysts read company financial statements and analyze commodity prices, sales, costs, expenses and tax rates in order to determine a company's value and project future earnings. Personal financial advisors assess the financial needs of their clients and use their knowledge of investments, tax laws and insurance to recommend financial options that are consistent with their short-term and long-term goals. Some of the issues that planners address are retirement and estate planning, funding for college, and general investment options. While most planners offer advice on a wide range of topics, some specialize in areas such as retirement and estate planning or risk management.