Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents
Job Outlook
Employment of securities, commodities, and financial services sales agents is projected to grow 10 percent from 2014 to 2024, faster than the average for all occupations.
Services that investment bankers provide, such as helping with initial public offerings and mergers and acquisitions, will continue to be in demand as the economy grows. The United States remains an international financial center, meaning that the economic growth of countries around the world will contribute to employment growth in the American financial industry.
However, the financial services industry has experienced some consolidation in recent years, which has slowed employment growth for these workers. In addition, automated trading systems have reduced demand for securities traders.
Financial regulation, including restrictions on proprietary trading, have created a shift of employment among traders from investment banks to hedge funds; however, this shift should not affect overall employment growth for the occupation.
Job Prospects
The high pay associated with securities, commodities, and financial services sales agents draws many more applicants than there are openings. Therefore, competition for jobs is intense.
Certification and a graduate degree, such as a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification and a master's degree in business administration (MBA), can improve an applicant's prospects. For entry-level jobs, having an excellent grade-point average (GPA) in college is important.
Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents
Percent change in employment, projected 2014-24
Securities, commodities, and financial services sales agents
10%
Sales representatives, services
7%
Total, all occupations
7%
Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program