Do you want to become a Stock Exchange Dealer/Trader? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:
Job Description -
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Stock exchange dealers or traders perform the daily task of buying and selling shares on the international markets. Within the trading team there are two roles:
By studying the supply and demand for investment in various companies and the economic news, they try and judge the best time to buy and sell to maximise profits for their clients. Some traders have client permission to make certain judgement calls. A few trade on behalf of the bank itself.
The working day is from about 7.45am to 7pm, which covers the international trading hours. Once trading starts, dealers rarely leave the office. They sit at a dealing desk in a dealing room. Most trades are completed electronically. They are constantly on the phone and talking to colleagues, so the atmosphere can be very noisy. Part-time work is not usually feasible, although job sharing is becoming more common.
Salaries range from around £24,000 a year, to over £100,000 a year for a successful trader with annual bonuses. Stock exchange dealers/traders need:
The majority of traders work for investment banks, but they can also work for stockbroking firms and specialist investment management companies. Employment is generally based in London, although a few smaller dealing desks exist in other financial centres, including Leeds, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow and Edinburgh. Openings for traders are limited and highly competitive.
Although there are no formal entry requirements, most firms only consider graduates. Any degree subject is acceptable but economics, a financial subject or other numerate subject would be advantageous. Most traders are under the age of 30 on entry.
Before traders can conduct any business they must qualify to be placed on the stock exchange's list of people who are eligible to trade. This requires passing Financial Services Skills Council (FSSC) approved examinations.
New entrants are usually trainee traders for two years, progressing with experience to intermediate trader and then senior trader. It usually takes five years to reach associate level. Most work within this pressured environment for a limited period, and then move into a fund or investment management role.

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