What Does a Commercial Banking Analyst Do?

A commercial banking analyst is responsible for analyzing and structuring commercial financial transactions. Carrying out these responsibilities involves reviewing financial statements, conducting risk analysis, and structuring credit transactions. As a commercial banking analyst, a person will be required to be proficient in accounting and finance as these two disciplines play a huge role in his day-to-day responsibilities. Other responsibilities include using spreadsheets and financial modeling software to create a variety of financial models and strategies.

Commercial banks serve a wide variety of clients, ranging from governments and multi-national corporations to institutional investors and high net-worth individuals. The commercial banking industry participates in numerous financial sectors throughout the world, making the demand for commercial banking analysts significant. Individuals in this position will need to be able to analyze investment opportunities in numerous financial markets throughout the world.

The role of a commercial banking analyst will vary depending upon the bank with which he or she is employed. In general, analysts have responsibilities that revolve around providing investment advice and financial services to wealthy investors. These investments can pertain to stocks, bonds, commodities, or any number of various investment opportunities. The number of investment opportunities that a commercial bank can participate in is vast; therefore, an analyst in this role must be able to work with various team leaders and executives to select financial strategies that will best meet the objectives of the firm and its clients.

A commercial banking analyst must have excellent quantitative skills. Many analysts have an educational background in finance, mathematics, or accounting. In addition to quantitative skills, a commercial banking analyst will need to have great interpersonal skills as he or she will be responsible for communicating with a variety of investors and staff members. Analysts also need to be proficient with spreadsheets and financial modeling software as their main responsibility of analyzing investment opportunities will revolve around effectively using this type of software.

Many analysts who are looking to advance within the industry will continue their education by obtaining additional financial certifications. One of the more popular credentials is the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification. The CFA is esteemed throughout the financial world and can help analysts in gaining a better understanding of how to implement a wide variety of analytical strategies. The global nature of the certification also enables a commercial banking analyst to analyze and cultivate new investment opportunities in emerging markets regardless of location.