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Investment Advisor Career in South Africa

Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.

OFO Code2021-241203
Trade occupationNo
Green occupationNo
Related qualifications0

Occupation overview

Advises clients in respect of securities and other financial investments and instruments.

What does a Investment Advisor do?

An Investment Advisor helps clients understand and make decisions about securities and other financial investments and instruments. The work may include advising on funds, portfolios and financial markets, or supporting securities sales and trading activities. Advisors need to connect investment information with each client’s objectives, circumstances and risk considerations.

Specialisations

Financial Markets Investment AdvisorFund AdvisorPortfolio AdvisorSecurities Sales Trader

How to become a Investment Advisor in South Africa

  1. Build a strong understanding of securities, investment instruments, funds and portfolios.
  2. Develop the ability to analyse financial information and explain investment matters clearly to clients.
  3. Explore education and training options related to investments and financial markets, while confirming current requirements with relevant providers and employers.
  4. Seek opportunities to gain practical exposure to client advising, portfolio-related work, fund advice or securities sales and trading.
  5. Keep developing knowledge of financial markets and investment products throughout your career.

Edupstairs Preparation Guidance

There is no single universal qualification pathway identified for this career. Education in relevant financial and investment topics may support preparation, but prospective Investment Advisors should confirm current education, assessment and workplace expectations with appropriate providers, employers or official bodies before enrolling or applying.

Useful school subjects

  • Mathematics
  • Accounting
  • Business Studies
  • Economics
  • English

Skills that may help

  • Explaining complex investment information clearly
  • Client communication and relationship building
  • Analysing securities and other investment instruments
  • Understanding financial markets, funds and portfolios
  • Listening to clients and identifying their investment needs
  • Careful attention to financial information
  • Ethical and responsible decision-making

Related Careers

Data source: Career information is based on South Africa’s Organising Framework for Occupations (OFO) and Edupstairs career guidance. Employer, training and professional requirements may vary and should be confirmed with the relevant organisation.