Financial analyst

What does a financial analyst do? – Tasks and work environment

A financial analyst works with analyzing financial information to support investment decisions. This can involve evaluating companies, sectors, or markets by interpreting annual reports, following macroeconomic trends, and performing advanced financial modeling. The work environment is often office-based with a high pace, where accuracy and the ability to handle large amounts of information are crucial. Financial analysts are found in banks, insurance companies, fund management firms, and consulting companies, where the work often involves tight deadlines and continuous market monitoring.

Salary development over time

The salary for financial analysts has shown steady growth over recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 66,800 SEK per month, which increased to 68 500 SEK in 2023 and further to 73 100 SEK in 2024. The total increase over this three-year period amounts to approximately 9.4%, indicating a continued strong salary trend in the industry. Factors driving this development include high demand for qualified expertise within the financial sector, increased requirements for analytical skills, and a general appreciation of economic specialist roles. Salary differences between genders are still noticeable, showing that the development has not been entirely even.

Financial analyst salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 73 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 47,200 SEK/month (women), 61,000 SEK/month (men)
• Highest salary: 76,800 SEK/month (men), 69,000 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 440 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 87% of what men do (men: 76 100 SEK, women: 66 300 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on location and employer, but detailed statistics are currently unavailable.

Education and qualifications

To work as a financial analyst, a university degree in economics, finance, or mathematics is usually required, often supplemented with relevant certifications. Many employers value experience from internships or trainee programs within the finance sector. Continuous professional development through courses and self-study in financial analysis, valuation methods, and market economics is also common.

• Formal education: Economics programs at university/higher education, 3–5 years
• Certifications: CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst), FRM (Financial Risk Manager)
• Internships/Traineeships: Common and advantageous for entry into the profession
• Prerequisites: Strong knowledge of mathematics, statistics, and economics
• Further education: Courses in financial analysis, Excel, and programming

Common benefits and compensation

In addition to the base salary, financial analysts are often offered performance-based bonuses, occupational pensions, wellness allowances, and sometimes employee options or profit sharing. Other common benefits include flexible working hours, subsidized insurance, and access to further training or certification programs funded by the employer.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a financial analyst is generally high, especially at larger workplaces in urban areas. Since the industry is sensitive to economic cycles, the number of available positions can fluctuate depending on market conditions. Technological changes and digitalization increase demands for skills in data analysis and programming. At the same time, the ability to quickly adapt to changing regulations and market conditions is essential. Staying updated on global economic events often requires working outside regular office hours.

Tips for aspiring financial analysts

To succeed as a financial analyst, it is beneficial to have an analytical mindset and a strong ability to interpret complex information. Curiosity and a continuous desire to learn new things make it easier as the financial markets change rapidly and new analysis tools are introduced. Precision is crucial to avoid errors in reports and presentations, while good communication skills help convey results to colleagues and clients. Self-leadership skills assist in managing stress and prioritizing tasks, and initiative is often rewarded through taking on own projects and suggesting improvements. Many develop their careers by actively building networks and participating in industry events, which can lead to unexpected career opportunities.

Key facts about Financial Analysts

• Education level: Bachelor's or master's degree (3–5 years)
• Work environment: Office-based, often fast-paced with deadlines
• Job openings: 758 advertised positions within the profession
• Demand: Moderate opportunities, forecast unchanged over 5 years
• Gender distribution: Men earn on average 15% more than women in the profession

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a financial analyst, opportunities exist to advance to roles such as senior analyst, portfolio manager, or head of analysis. Specializing in areas like risk management or sustainable investments can open new career paths within banks, fund management firms, and larger companies. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the job market for financial analysts is expected to be balanced, with moderate opportunities both now and in five years. The demand for qualified analysts is projected to remain stable, though competition for the most attractive positions may be intense. Digitalization and increased complexity in financial markets make specialized knowledge in data analysis, programming, and ESG issues increasingly valuable.

Frequently asked questions about Financial Analysts

• What does a Financial Analyst earn?
  - A financial analyst has an average salary of 73 100 SEK per month, but the salary can vary between 47,200 SEK and 76,800 SEK depending on experience, education, and employer.
• How do you become a financial analyst?
  - Most commonly, by studying economics or finance at university and then applying for trainee positions or junior analyst roles.
• What are the job responsibilities of a financial analyst?
  - The tasks include financial analysis, company valuation, market monitoring, and providing investment recommendations.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 87% of what men do within the profession.
• What are the future prospects for financial analysts?
  - The forecast indicates moderate employment opportunities and stable demand over the next five years.
• What benefits are common for financial analysts?
  - Common benefits include bonuses, occupational pensions, wellness allowances, and sometimes employee options or profit sharing.
• Can you work internationally as a financial analyst?
  - Yes, the education and experience are often transferable internationally, especially with English as the working language and international certifications.