Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents

These professionals spend their days buying and selling securities or commodities for trading firms, or delivering financial services to individuals and businesses. They analyze data, process information, and use computers to monitor market conditions. Building strong interpersonal relationships and communicating with people outside their organization are central to the job, as agents frequently advise customers on investment options like stocks and mutual funds.

Success in this field requires an enterprising interest area, strong persuasion skills, active listening, and clear speaking. Agents must make complex decisions and solve problems while evaluating information to ensure it complies with industry standards. Because the financial markets are fast-paced, workers need high stress tolerance, dependability, attention to detail, and self-confidence. They rely on a deep knowledge of economics, accounting, sales, marketing, mathematics, and customer service to guide their clients effectively.

Entering this career typically requires a bachelor's degree, and most workers need several years of related experience. Students often prepare by majoring in finance and financial management services, specialized sales, or merchandising and marketing operations.

Professional credentials can help agents advance. Available certifications include the Associate, Customer Service from LOMA, the Certified Pension Consultant from the American Society of Pension Professionals and Actuaries, and the Chartered Market Technician - Level I. To meet regulatory standards, agents often take exams such as the Series 63 Uniform Securities Agent State Law Examination, the Series 65 Uniform Investment Adviser Law Examination, or the Series 66 Uniform Combined State Law Examination. Additionally, some states list a license for this work.

The median annual pay for these sales agents is $78,660. Earnings vary widely based on performance and experience, with the lowest 10 percent earning less than $48,040 and the highest 10 percent earning more than $212,880.

There are 489,570 people employed in this field. Between 2025 and 2035, employment is projected to grow by 1.4 percent, which is slower than average. Despite this slow growth rate, the field expects about 35,100 openings each year.