Stock market analyst

What does a Stock Analyst do? – Tasks and work environment

A Stock Analyst works with analyzing stocks, publicly traded companies, and market trends to provide input for investment decisions. Tasks include in-depth financial analysis, monitoring news flows, preparing reports, and presenting recommendations to clients, investors, or internal decision-makers. The role often involves tracking market movements in real-time, participating in meetings with company management, and interpreting macroeconomic signals. The work environment is typically office-based in a fast-paced setting, where quick decisions and high attention to detail are crucial.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Stock Analyst has shown a clear positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 66,800 SEK per month, increasing to 68 500 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary reached 73 100 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 9.4% over two years. Factors driving salary increases include sustained high demand for financial expertise, increased market complexity, and a greater need for specialized analysis. Although the profession is relatively small on the job market, competition for the most qualified analysts has pushed salaries higher, especially in metropolitan areas and within the private sector.

Stock Analyst salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 73 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 47,200 SEK/month (female), 61,000 SEK/month (male)
• Highest salary: 69,000 SEK/month (female), 76,800 SEK/month (male)
• Hourly wage: 440 SEK/hour
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 87% of what men do (66 300 SEK vs. 76 100 SEK)
• Regional differences: Higher salaries in metropolitan areas and within the private sector

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a Stock Analyst usually involves higher education in economics or finance, complemented by courses in finance and practical experience from the industry. Many analysts hold a degree in economics, finance, mathematics, or industrial engineering, and further their education through certifications and specialized courses. The industry values both academic credentials and work experience, especially from internships, trainee programs, or employment in banking and finance.

• Formal degree: Bachelor or master's in economics, finance, or industrial engineering (3–5 years)
• Certifications: CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst), FRM, or similar
• Internships/Trainee programs: Common within banks, fund companies, and financial institutions
• Prerequisites: Strong knowledge of mathematics, statistics, and English
• Self-study: Online courses in stock analysis, Excel, and financial modeling

Common benefits and compensation

Stock Analysts are often offered benefits packages including pension, bonuses, wellness allowances, and sometimes profit sharing. Other common benefits include flexible working hours, remote work options, training allowances, and health insurance. Bonuses can constitute a significant part of total compensation depending on performance and company results.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Stock Analyst is high, especially at leading banks and asset managers. Demands include strong analytical ability, stress management, and the capacity to quickly interpret large amounts of information. Rapid changes in financial markets, digitalization, and increased automation mean continuous skill development is necessary. Expectations for accuracy and delivery under pressure are high, and the job often involves long working hours during reporting periods and major market events. Balancing work and private life can therefore be challenging for many in the profession.

Tips for aspiring Stock Analysts

To succeed as a Stock Analyst, it’s beneficial to combine analytical sharpness with a genuine interest in financial markets and macroeconomics. Developing critical thinking skills enables quick assessment of risks and opportunities in companies and markets. Being communicative is also valuable, as clear reports and oral presentations are often required to convey analyses to diverse audiences. Building a strong network within the finance industry can open doors to internships and entry-level positions. Self-discipline and accuracy are crucial, especially when working under pressure and tight deadlines. An early engagement in investment clubs and practicing both quantitative and qualitative analysis are recommended. Finally, a willingness to continuously learn new skills offers significant advantages, as markets and analysis tools evolve rapidly.

Key facts about Stock Analysts

• Education level: Post-secondary education (3–5 years), often bachelor’s or master’s in economics or finance
• Work environment: Office-based, fast-paced, quick decision-making
• Work arrangement: Full-time, sometimes overtime during reporting periods
• Demand: Moderate, approximately 758 job openings in the profession
• Special skills: Financial analysis, industry-specific expertise, CFA certification

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years in the profession, a Stock Analyst can advance to senior analyst, portfolio manager, or take on managerial roles within analysis or investment. Some choose to specialize further in sectors like technology or sustainable investments, while others move into strategic roles at investment banks or consulting firms. The Employment Service forecasts that job opportunities are moderate, with a balanced recruitment situation and unchanged demand over the next five years. Increasing industry requirements for advanced analysis and digital skills mean that specialized expertise and certifications can provide clear competitive advantages. The profession reports 758 available jobs nationally, indicating a stable job market for qualified analysts.

Frequently asked questions about Stock Analysts

• What does a Stock Analyst earn?
  - The average salary is 73 100 SEK per month, but it can vary depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• How to become a Stock Analyst?
  - A common route is a degree in economics or finance, preferably supplemented with internships and certifications like CFA.
• Are there gender pay gaps?
  - Yes, women earn on average 87% of what men do within the profession.
• What are the job responsibilities of a Stock Analyst?
  - Analysis of stocks and markets, report writing, meetings with company management, and presentations.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Demand is moderate and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years according to the Employment Service's forecast.
• What is required to succeed in the profession?
  - Strong analytical skills, precision, communication, and the ability to work under pressure are important qualities.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a Stock Analyst?
  - The highest salary is 76,800 SEK (male), while the lowest is 47,200 SEK (female).