Whenever you have a conversation with your relatives or friends, it at times includes investing in the stock market. Almost everyone who earns is either investing or considering investing in the stock market to multiply their savings over time. However, the stock market is not just beneficial for investors but you can be its part by creating a career in the stock market.
With over 15,138 crore demat accounts, creating a career in the stock market can provide ideal for personal and professional growth. This blog will help you understand the different work profiles within the stock market, along with their roles and responsibilities.
Read more: What are equity shares
What are the careers in the stock market in India?
One of the best features of the Indian stock market is the existence of multiple careers suited for individual qualifications and professional needs. Here are the different careers you can choose if you want to have a career in the stock market:
Broker
Brokers, or stockbrokers, are entities licensed by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). Their main role is to buy and sell securities on behalf of investors who have a demat account with them. You have to pass the NISM certificate exam to be a broker.
You can be a full-service broker who provides numerous services, such as stock advice, research, and transaction handling. On the other hand, you can be a discount broker who only helps investors buy and sell securities on their behalf.
Advisor
Stock market advisors, also known as financial advisors or investment advisors, provide guidance and recommendations on buying, selling, and managing investments in the stock market. As an advisor, you will help investors identify ideal stocks based on their investment strategies and risk appetite.
You will be required to pass the NISM certification exam and register with SEBI to become an investment advisor.
Portfolio management services
Portfolio management services, or PMS, are financial experts who curate investment strategies for their clients (investors) based on their investment goals and risk appetite. Generally, PMS firms pool investor money and invest in various stocks and other instruments to provide desired returns to the investors.
Portfolio managers have extensive financial expertise, and getting such a job requires qualifications such as a CA, CFA, or MBA in finance.
Research analysts
Research analysts, also known as financial analysts or equity analysts, are professionals who evaluate and analyse financial data to provide insights and recommendations about investment opportunities. The main role of research analysts is to analyse and understand the current market trend and the performance and potential of various assets, such as stocks, bonds, and other securities.
Being a research analyst requires extensive knowledge of the financial markets. Hence, research analysts are generally from a financial background and are CAs, CFAs, or MBAs.
Investment bankers
Investment bankers are professionals who work in the financial services sector, specifically within investment banking divisions of banks, investment firms, or other financial institutions. Their primary role is to assist companies, governments, and other entities in raising capital and providing financial advisory services.
The basic responsibility is to help private companies go public through an IPO, where investment bankers handle the IPO listing process. Investment bankers have qualifications such as a bachelor's degree in finance or economics or CA and CFA certifications.
Relationship managers
Relationship managers help existing stockbrokers or PMS firms maintain good relationships with clients and also help them acquire new clients. The main role of relationship managers is to cater to any problems faced by the clients. They are also the first person to have communication with potential clients to present them with a company’s financial product or services.
To become a relationship manager, you will require a bachelor’s degree in finance or an MBA in finance.
Professional investors or traders
Professional investors or traders are individuals who invest or trade in the stock market as a career. It requires an investment amount and general knowledge about the stock market. Professional investors and traders create a balanced portfolio with a mix of high-return and steady-return investments to cater to their short-term and long-term needs.
There is no qualification required to be a professional investor and trader, but an extensive understanding of the stock market is beneficial for better research and successful investments.
Read more: Large-cap stocks
What are the stock market-related jobs in India?
Some jobs that are relevant to careers in the stock market are:
- Writing: Content writers write for stockbrokers as a part of their marketing plan.
- Designers: Designers design graphics or products for stockbrokers.
- Trainers: Trainers train individuals on the basics of the stock market.
Read more: Mid-cap stocks
Is it risky to choose stock trading as a career in India?
Although there are some risks involved in the stock market, such as interest risk and regulatory risk, a thought-out career in the stock market can prove ideal, as a career in the stock market can provide good salaries and returns. However, it is wise to do extensive research and consult a professional before choosing a career in the stock market.
Career in the stock market - Key takeaways
- Understand your skills and interests before choosing a career in the stock market.
- Every career in the stock market has different salaries and roles; research before you choose.
- You can visit NSE's website to browse through numerous certification courses and choose which best suits you.
Read more: Growth stocks
Conclusion
Choosing a career in the Indian stock market can be an exciting and rewarding journey for anyone passionate about finance and investments. With India’s economy growing and the stock market becoming more accessible, there are plenty of opportunities in roles like stock market advisors, research analysts, investment bankers, and financial planners. However, as every career in the stock market is different in terms of roles, salaries, and qualification requirements, you should understand every profile before choosing the right one.
