Top 5 Highest Paying Financial Careers

Financial job opportunities

When the graduation festivities have ended and students have received their degrees in economics or business, they will of course need to scour the national landscape for a well-paying job. Many financial job opportunities are linked to handsome salaries, and men and women who are able to land them will surely do well going forward. Here are five financial careers that are at the very top of the salary pyramid.


1) Economists

Economists are closely involved with economic policy. Because they are often employed by large corporations and national governments, their salaries are usually very high. Economists may work in banking, finance, commerce and business administration. They may also be closely involved with certain lobbying groups. Politicians often consult with economists before refining their fiscal policies.

2) Financial Analysts

Unlike economists, financial analysts are more closely involved with investing. Analysts are often charged with developing financial models for corporations to follow. Some professionals are devoted to looking for trends in the stock market. If they work for an investment company, they will be striving to help ordinary folks diversify their portfolios. In other instances, financial analysts are key players in mergers and acquisitions. In corporate mergers where quite a bit of money will be changing hands, analysts will usually receive very high salaries.

>>Get in-depth information on finance degrees

3) Actuaries

Actuaries are experts at risk management. They look at various situations and determine which outcomes are the most likely. These professionals often deal heavily with insurance. Many of them specialize in health insurance, life insurance, social welfare and asset management. Corporations often employ actuaries for help with risk management techniques.

4) Personal Financial Advisors

Personal financial advisors can do quite well for themselves. Many experts run their own companies and are dedicated to helping individuals and families with financial planning. They assist with taxes, investments and insurance options. The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that this particular profession will grow faster than the average in future years. As large numbers of Americans begin to reach retirement age, they will require expert assistance with monetary planning going forward.

>> Discover other careers in the finance industry

5) Real Estate Brokers

Financial jobs

In a world where large pieces of property can change hands quickly, skilled real estate brokers are likely to make large amounts of money. Brokers specialize in comparative market analysis, property management, real estate appraisals, auctions and leases. In most states, brokers will have to obtain licenses to work in the industry.

Because the financial industry is so varied, individuals who have obtained the appropriate degrees will surely be able to land high-paying jobs. As economists, actuaries, financial analysts, personal advisors or real estate brokers, professionals can quickly build a name for themselves. With dedication, they’ll be pulling in admirable annual salaries within just a few years.

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