If you would like to pursue a career in capital markets, you have come to the right place. Did you know that jobs in the finance industry, such as careers in capital markets, are now extremely lucrative? This means that these jobs are in high demand. You may think that pursuing a career in capital markets would probably land you in a financial institution or bank. You may also think that you will work in that institution for the rest of your life. So, is that true?
Well, it may be, but that is not always the case! Note that with a background in finance, there are several other exciting options that you may pursue, and you will not ever feel like that you are stuck. For most jobs in capital markets, an undergraduate degree is a minimum requirement.
Also, keep in mind that many professionals also have post-graduate degrees. Some of these include MBAs first, but other qualifications, such as master’s degrees and PhDs, are also common.
What are Capital Markets?
We can define a capital market as a market where various financial products, like equity and debt-backed securities, are issued and purchased and sold. It is worth noting that these markets control the savings and investments between the various suppliers of capital. Keep in mind that suppliers of capital often include investors that operate in institutional and retail investments.
Capital markets are important in the economy as they mobilize the investors’ savings, putting them to productive and effective use in the long-term.
Skills You Need to Pursue a Career in Capital Markets
You will be pleased to know that the skills required for a successful career in capital markets are quite similar to those required in investment banking or equity research. If you are interested in finance, you can easily opt to specialize in capital markets.
However, it is worth noting there are a few basic skills and job qualifications that you need to make it into the industry. For example, a post-graduate degree in finance with specialized skills, like marketing, financial modeling, and financial analytics, will likely prepare you for some of the best opportunities in capital markets.
Also, note that strong knowledge of the market and financial systems, good communication and negotiation skills, as well as excellent listening skills, are some of the important qualities and traits that will help you gain a firm grasp on the capital markets.
Career Options in Capital Markets
Relationship Manager
A relationship manager helps firms improve relationships with their clients through various direct and indirect means. Note that a retail relationship manager helps manage the accounts of many individual bank customers. They also educate these clients to purchase suitable financial products.
A wholesale relationship manager, in contrast, caters to various corporate clients, such as multinational companies and SMEs.
Capital Market Consultant
Did you know that capital markets consultants mainly serve different institutional investors? Keep in mind that as a capital market consultant, you will help many leading financial institutions and banks to automate and streamline their operations.
This allows these institutions to reduce their costs, grow revenue, improve customer service, and gain a competitive advantage in the market. So, capital market consultants must possess deep and extensive knowledge in capital markets business, technical, and functional areas.
Portfolio Manager
There is no doubt that portfolio management is among the most prestigious and valuable roles in the finance industry. As a portfolio manager, you will directly oversee retail and institutional client investments in your daily work.
You will recommend personalized investment strategies as well as specific investment decisions to your clients. You will likely have discretionary power in executing your strategies to fulfill your client’s goals and objectives.
Commercial Banker
Note that being a regional manager of any commercial bank is not just a matter of honor, but it also brings in plenty of responsibilities. As a commercial banker, you will have to lead your team toward achieving the business of your branch.
You will also oversee the entire operations of your branch. If you want to make your mark as an excellent commercial banker, you should have an analytical mindset, strong negotiation skills, knowledge of various banking products, as well as the ability to work well under pressure.
Hedge Fund Trader
Did you know that hedge fund traders do not work to satisfy client orders? Instead, their job is maximizing profits for the fund they are managing. Note that traders at hedge funds might take orders from portfolio managers, or they might decide on their sells and buys.
Related Courses: Capital Markets Professional Certificate
This introductory program offers a comprehensive survey of capital markets. Money and banking, the role of central banks and the evolving regulatory landscape are reviewed. The program also provides a thorough grounding in the full range of capital market instruments.
About The New York Institute of Finance
The New York Institute of Finance (NYIF) is a global leader in professional training for financial services and related industries. NYIF courses cover everything from investment banking, asset pricing, insurance and market structure to financial modeling, treasury operations, and accounting. The New York Institute of Finance has a faculty of industry leaders and offers a range of program delivery options, including self-study, online courses, and in-person classes. Founded by the New York Stock Exchange in 1922, NYIF has trained over 250,000 professionals online and in-class, in over 120 countries.
See all of NYIF’s training and qualifications here.