Investment Banker Certification in Arizona

Investment bankers match investors with investment opportunities.

Investment bankers working in the state of Arizona must meet certain requirements to legally offer investment services and advice to clients. Depending on the scope of the position and the requirements of the hiring organization, an investment banker or adviser may be required to hold specific degrees, certifications or licenses.

Individual Investment Bankers

An individual investment banker in Arizona works directly with consumers looking to invest, grow and protect their financial portfolios. Some investment bankers work directly in stocks and commodities, selling securities to earn commissions for placing buy and sell trade orders on a client's behalf, notes the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Other investment bankers work as financial services representatives or financial advisers, consulting with clients on banking products, retirement, estate planning, insurance options and investment opportunities such as securities, stocks and bonds.

Corporate Investment Bankers

Another type of investment banker is one that works mainly in the corporate world. A corporate investment banker works as an underwriter to help both public and private companies raise capital, as indicated by Eduers, an education and career information website. An investment banker may assist a company in setting up an IPO, or initial public offering, which allows an organization to sell part ownership of the company to the public in return for capital. Corporate investment bankers may also find private investors to invest in a company by purchasing bonds or company stock.

Certifications

Investment banking services in all states, including Arizona, are governed by FINRA, or the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. FINRA stipulates that individuals engaged in investment services must be licensed by the National Association of Securities Dealers. In addition to FINRA, the Arizona Securities Division oversees individuals and firms selling securities or dispensing investment advice. Article 4, section 44-1842 of the Arizona Securities Act states that it is a felony for any unlicensed dealer to sell or purchase securities. Depending on what types of investing or trades are to be conducted, an investment banker in Arizona may be required to hold the NASD Series 7, 63, 65, 24, 53, 4 or Series 9 & 10 registration. Aspiring investment bankers should refer to the FINRA Registration and Examination Requirements to determine which certifications are most applicable to their career goals.

Additional Arizona Requirements

Investment advisers in the state of Arizona require additional certification, according to the Arizona Corporate Commission Securities Division. Applicants must pay a licensing fee and submit form ADV to register with both the Securities and Exchange Commission and the state of Arizona. Form ADV must be submitted through the FINRA Investment Adviser Registration Depository. Applicants may also be required to submit a fingerprint card.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents
• Eduers: MBA Finance Job Description
• Securities Division Arizona Corporation Commission: Questions and Answers About the Securities Division
• Arizona Corporate Commission Securities Division: Arizona Investment Adviser and Investment Adviser Representative Licensing and Notice Filing Requirements

Resources

• FINRA Registration and Examination Requirements
• Arizona Securities Act
• U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Form ADV