What Does an Equity Research Associate Do? Equity Research Associate Job Description, Skills & Responsibilities
Learn about what equity research associates do each day. Discover the top Equity Research Associate Job Description, responsibilities, day-to-day skills, and requirements needed to be successful in this investment analysis role.
What is an Equity Research Associate?
An equity research associate (ERA) works at an asset management or investment firm, providing analytical and financial support to senior analysts and fund managers. Their core responsibility is conducting in-depth research and analysis on companies to uncover investment opportunities and make data-driven recommendations.
Key Responsibilities
- Research and analyze assigned companies, sectors, regions
- Gather information from financial statements, regulatory filings, management calls
- Build detailed valuation and earnings models
- Create DCF, comps and other models in Excel, CapIQ, FactSet
- Draft sections of initiation and earnings review reports
- Create presentations summarizing quantitative analytics
- Aggregate data into slide decks for portfolio managers
- Coordinate across research teams and business units
Skills and Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics
Experience
- 1-3 years conducting investment research and analysis
Technical Skills
- Advanced Excel modeling skills
- Proficiency in navigating tools like Bloomberg, CapIQ, and FactSet
Soft Skills
- Critical thinking abilities
- Problem-solving skills
- Attention to detail
- Ability to synthesize complex information
- Written and verbal communication abilities
Equity research associates play a critical support role for senior investment team members by providing the underlying analysis needed to make profitable investment decisions. Their financial modelling, research, and communication skills are vital for the job.
Equity Research Associate Job DescriptionTemplate
We are looking for an analytical, detail-oriented candidate for the position of Equity Research Associate. The Equity Research Associate will apply strong financial modelling and analysis skills to thoroughly research companies across designated sectors and regions. This role will work closely with our senior equity analysts to support the research process and contribute to making sound investment recommendations.
Core Responsibilities
- Conduct financial modelling and qualitative analysis on assigned companies, stocks, and industries using valuation methodologies and techniques including EPS, DCF and comps comparisons
- Compile and aggregate findings into well-written models and reports
- Assist in drafting company initiation reports, earnings review and analysis reports and industry overviews
- Research and interpret economic indicators, market trends and conditions to incorporate into analysis and models
- Create quant-driven presentations summarizing investment thesis and highlights for portfolio managers
Requirements and Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics or business
- 1-3 years of conducting fundamental equity research or comparable financial analysis experience
- Expert proficiency in conducting modelling and analysis in Excel and using financial software platforms like FactSet, CapIQ, and Bloomberg
- Knowledge of public company filings including 10Ks, research methodologies, valuation models and financial ratio analysis
- Self-motivated worker with high attention to detail and demonstrated critical thinking and analytical skills
- Strong verbal and written communication as well as organizational abilities
Frequently Asked Questions for Equity Research Associates
What does an equity research associate do?
An equity research associate conducts research and analysis on companies, industries, economic conditions, and the overall investment landscape. Their work supports senior level analysts and portfolio managers in making investment recommendations and decisions.
What are the core responsibilities?
Common responsibilities include:
- Building detailed financial models in Excel and other software packages
- Writing sections of company initiation and earnings review reports
- Summarizing quantitative analyses into slide presentations
- Gathering information on a company from earnings statements and regulatory filings
- Creating discounted cash flow models, ratios comparisons, and other valuations
What background and skills are required?
Most equity research associates have:
- Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, or business-related fields
- 1-3 years of relevant experience conducting investment research or financial analysis
- High proficiency in conducting equity modeling and analysis in Excel and platforms like Bloomberg or FactSet
- Knowledge of financial statements and valuation methodologies
- Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
What is the work environment like?
Equity research associates generally work full-time in office settings, usually at investment banks, hedge funds, wealth management firms, or other financial services companies. The role tends to be in a fast-paced environment with frequent deadlines.
What are the job prospects and pay like?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 5% job growth for all financial analysts from 2022-2032. Pay can vary significantly, but average comp ranges from $60K-$120K with experience and professional certification. Many move into senior analyst or portfolio management positions.