Securities, Commodities, & Financial Services Sales Agents

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Scrolling by on the side of a building… or at the bottom of the news… the stock exchange update can look like random lists of numbers. Securities, commodities, and financial services sales agents use their knowledge to translate those numbers into investment advice for their clients. These sales agents make trades, advise clients, and sell securities. Sales agents spend much of their time with clients, and deal with a wide range of products. Products they sell include commodities— usually an electronic transaction rather than a face-to-face sale— of agricultural products like wheat or cocoa, or resources such as oil and gold; securities—different types of tradable assets such as stocks, bonds and options; and financial services— essentially, the service of investing clients’ money to increase it, using a variety of investments. These agents differ based on the types of products they trade, the services they provide and the licenses they hold: Brokers sell directly to individual clients and give financial advice. Investment bankers connect businesses that need financing with investors, and may travel extensively. Investment banking sales agents and traders buy and sell stocks, bonds, and commodities for clients and make trades on behalf of firms. Floor brokers make trades directly at a securities or commodities exchange. All of these sales agents closely monitor and analyze markets to stay informed and make strong decisions. They usually work full time and many work overtime, including weekends. Entry-level positions require a bachelor’s degree in business, finance, accounting, or economics. An MBA is helpful for advancement.