Why Financial Modelling is the ultimate skill you need to kickstart your career in 2024
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Ever wondered what makes the financial modelling program tick in 2024?
Picture this: a dynamic landscape where every digit and decimal point holds the key to unlocking success. Now, here’s a little brain teaser for you: In a world buzzing with financial fervor, how do you ensure you’re not just riding the wave but steering the ship?
Financial Modelling isn’t just a skill; it’s the ultimate passport to navigating the complex terrains of finance. As we dive into the 2024 financial scene, one thing is crystal clear—it’s not just about keeping up; it’s about leaping ahead in the race.
So, why is Financial Modelling the secret sauce that can catapult your career to new heights in 2024? Let’s find out.
The Crucial Role of Financial Modelling
Financial modelling is the strategic roadmap for a business’s finances, akin to planning a route before a trip. It involves creating and adjusting plans to guide a company toward its goals, predicting changes, and assessing their impact on revenue. Much like an architect, Financial Modelling Analysts construct these plans using historical data, identifying opportunities, and making predictions. This career, gaining popularity in India and globally, is ideal for those who enjoy working with numbers and contributing to business success.
Financial modelling acts as a financial GPS, predicting outcomes, facilitating informed decisions, and offering a clear roadmap in the intricate realm of finance—a behind-the-scenes wizard transforming numbers into crystal-clear plans.
What’s in the Toolkit?
Financial Modelling involves creating tools like:
- Company Valuation: Assessing a company’s worth.
- Cash Flow Analysis: Predicting how money moves.
- Future Financial Statements: Building future reports on income, spending, and cash.
- Scenario Testing: Exploring what-if situations.
- Investment Decision Models: Checking if an investment is a wise move.
Also Read – How to Learn Financial Modelling: Online, Offline & Self-Learning Options
How Does it Work?
It’s like creating a recipe:
- Collect Data: Gather past financial info.
- Make Educated Guesses: Assume things based on what’s known.
- Build Models: Use tools like Excel to craft the plan.
- Test Ideas: See what might happen in different situations.
- Adjust as Needed: Tweak the plan based on what’s happening.
Why Does it Matter?
Financial Modelling is the GPS of finance, guiding decisions by
- Making clever choices based on facts.
- Checking and avoiding potential risks.
- Guiding plans with money forecasts.
- Deciding if an investment is a good idea.
- Making complicated money stuff easy to understand.
Where is it Used?
From big corporations to budding startups, Financial Modelling finds its way into:
- Investment Banking: Figuring out company worth.
- Companies: Planning budgets and looking into the future.
- Stock Market: Checking out stock prices and trends.
- Big Projects: Seeing if big plans make financial sense.
- New Businesses: Creating plans and attracting backers.
Tools of the Trade:
- Microsoft Excel
- Programming languages like Python.
What is a Financial Model Used For?
Financial models come in various types, each serving a distinct purpose. The outcomes of these models play a crucial role in decision-making and financial analysis.
Master the art of Financial Modelling in just 4 months, build 5+ models, become NSE Academy certified and much more
How financial models are wielded:
- Raising Capital: Determining the need for debt or equity capital.
- Making Acquisitions: Assessing the financial viability of acquiring businesses or assets.
- Organic Business Growth: Planning and decision-making for organic expansion, like opening new stores or entering new markets.
- Asset and Business Unit Management: Evaluating the sale or divestment of assets and business units.
- Budgeting and Forecasting: Planning for future years and setting financial goals.
- Capital Allocation: Prioritizing investment in different projects.
- Business Valuation: Assessing the worth of a business.
- Financial Statement Analysis: Examining and analyzing financial statements.
- Management Accounting: Supporting internal management decisions through financial insights.
Financial Modelling is the financial translator. It takes raw data, speaks the language of finance, and helps businesses and investors make informed, strategic decisions. It’s the bridge between past performance and future possibilities in the ever-evolving world of finance.
Who Crafts Financial Models?
Professionals from various career tracks are adept at building financial models. The primary domains include:
- Investment Banking
- Equity Research
- Corporate Development
- Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A)
- Accounting (Due Diligence, Transaction Advisory, Valuations, etc.)
Applications within the Finance Industry
- IPO Model: Excel is used for valuing companies pre-IPO. Considers similar business analysis and investor offering projections. Includes “IPO discount” for favorable secondary market trading.
- LBO Model: Acquisition using significant borrowed funds. Bonds or loans cover costs, with both companies’ assets as collateral.
- DCF Model: Assesses present value by estimating future earnings. Aids decisions on investing in securities or a company.
- Three Statement Model: Integrates income, balance sheet, and cash flow statements. Forms a foundational, dynamically linked model.
- Mergers Model: Calculates the M&A impact on the acquirer’s EPS.
- Option Pricing Model: Estimates option contract value based on variables. Main goal: likelihood of “in-the-money” or “out-of-the-money” upon exercise.
Financial modelling is your strategic companion in finance, turning historical data into insights for wise decisions. Models guide optimal investment for success, evaluate performance, and simplify scenarios, acting as a superpower for confident and smart choices in the finance world.
Also Read – How financial modeling can help MBA freshers
Benefits of Financial Modelling in 2024
- Enhances decision-making processes.
- Facilitates strategic planning for businesses.
- Enables professionals to predict and analyze financial trends.
- Supports capital raising, mergers, and acquisitions.
- Showcases the versatility of financial modelling skills.
Financial Modelling: Trends in 2024 and Beyond
In 2024, CFOs prioritize cash flow and cost analysis, driving digital transformation and automation. Cloud-based financial systems have gained popularity for remote work. AI, especially in accounting, aids in planning and automates tasks like fraud detection. Generative AI enhances productivity. Real-time payments surge, reshaping banking. Anticipation of stabilized inflation may revive capital expenditures. Increased cryptocurrency regulation is expected, while blockchain gains traction for security and transparency in various applications. Adaptation to new technologies and upskilling are crucial for financial professionals.
The Scope of Financial Modelling Education
Eligibility Criteria
Undergraduate Course:
- Eligibility: 10+2 from a recognized university.
Postgraduate Course:
- Eligibility: Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university.
Certificate Course:
- Eligibility: 10+2 from a recognized university.
Diploma Course:
- Eligibility: 10+2 from a recognized university.
Ensure you meet the specific eligibility criteria corresponding to the Financial Modelling course you intend to pursue, whether it’s an undergraduate degree, postgraduate degree, diploma, or certificate course.
Did you know, Proschool has 700+ core finance jobs. You could be entering one of these after the course!
Financial Modelling Core Subjects:
- Corporate Finance
- Portfolio Management
- Cost of Capital
- Estimation of Risk and Return of Portfolio
- Modelling the Determinants of Capital Structure
- Testing of CAPM, APM, and MFM
- Agency Conflict and Dividend Policy
- Optimal Portfolio Selection
- Construction of Corporate Governance Index
- Construction of Index Fund and Stylized Funds
- Financial Market
- Risk Management
- Financial Market Integration
- Fixed Income Securities
- Efficient Market Hypothesis
- Assessment of Risk in Equity Market
- Financial Market Instability
- Financial Market Forecasting
- Risk Management in Insurance Companies
- Risk Management through Derivatives
Why Integrate CFA Level 1 Knowledge in the Financial Modelling Curriculum?
| Key Integration Points | Rationale |
| 1. Alignment with CFA Level 1 Syllabus | – Integrating CFA Level 1 knowledge into the Financial Modelling curriculum ensures alignment with the CFA syllabus. – This alignment simplifies the learning process for individuals pursuing both qualifications. |
| 2. Enhanced Depth in Financial Education | – The integration enriches the Financial Modelling curriculum, providing a more comprehensive understanding of practical financial knowledge. – Concepts covered in CFA Level 1, such as discounted cash flow analysis, intrinsic value, and ratio analysis, contribute to a deeper educational experience. |
| 3. Job Interview Advantages | – Individuals equipped with integrated knowledge are better prepared for job interviews, particularly with industry leaders. – Recruiters often seek candidates with a blend of practical skills, technical understanding, and problem-solving capabilities, all of which are emphasized in the integration. |
| 4. Focused Niche Identification | – The integrated curriculum offers diverse subjects, aiding individuals in identifying their specialized areas of expertise. – Exposure to various profiles and possibilities helps students make informed decisions about their career paths. |
| 5. Essential Requirement for Specialized CFA Profiles | – Integrating CFA Level 1 knowledge is crucial as certain CFA profiles, including roles in investment banking, credit analysis, and equity research, demand expertise in financial modelling. – The integration ensures students are well-prepared for roles requiring a combination of CFA and financial modelling skills. |
| 6. Holistic Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills | – The integration contributes to the development of holistic analytical and problem-solving skills. – Combining the analytical depth from CFA Level 1 with the practical analysis of financial situations through modelling results in a well-rounded skill set. |
Incorporating CFA Level 1 knowledge into Financial Modelling offers a curriculum enriched with the advantages of Financial Modelling.
Career Prospects After Financial Modelling Training
| Career Path | Role |
| Financial Analyst | Analyze financial data, prepare reports and provide decision-making support. |
| Investment Banker | Advise on financial matters, managing mergers and acquisitions, and raising capital. |
| Equity Research Analyst | Evaluate stocks and securities, providing investment recommendations, and analysis. |
| Business Valuation Analyst | Determine the economic value of a business, assessing mergers, acquisitions, and research. |
| Project Finance Analyst | Assess the financial viability of projects, managing budgets, and analyzing risks. |
| Financial Consultant | Provide expert financial advice, assisting with investment decisions, and strategy. |
| Corporate Financial Planner | Develop financial plans, forecasting budgets, and optimizing financial performance. |
| Risk Analyst or Manager | Identify and manage risks, ensuring compliance, and implementing mitigation. |
| Portfolio Manager | Manage investment portfolios, make strategic decisions, and optimize performance. |
| Entrepreneur/Startup Strategist | Guide financial decisions for startups, developing models, and optimizing resources. |
| Wealth Manager | Manage and grow wealth, providing investment advice, and financial planning. |
| Financial Controller | Oversee financial reporting, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance. |
| Credit Analyst | Assess creditworthiness, analyze financial data, and make loan recommendations. |
| Management Consultant | Advise on financial strategies, improving efficiency, and implementing models. |
| Real Estate Financial Analyst | Analyze real estate investments, assess property values, and provide insights. |
Financial modelling can significantly enhance career opportunities for B.Com graduates by providing advanced analytical skills and decision-making abilities highly valued in finance. This skill set demonstrates industry relevance, offering a competitive edge in the job market and opening doors to roles with greater responsibility and career advancement potential.
Also Read – Average salaries after completing the financial modelling course
How Financial Modelling Helps Secure Research-based Jobs
It enables professionals to:
- Conduct comprehensive data analysis for strategic decision-making.
- Accurately forecast future scenarios and plan effective strategies.
- Assess the value of assets through a strong foundation in valuation analysis.
- Make informed investment decisions based on robust financial modelling.
- Evaluate and manage financial risks to ensure a well-rounded approach.
- Extract meaningful insights from extensive datasets for informed decision-making.
- Communicate complex financial information with clarity and precision.
- Enhance strategic planning capabilities by aligning financial strategies with business objectives.
- Utilize financial modelling expertise in research-focused finance roles for impactful decision-making.
After Financial Modelling training, students can consider upskilling in
CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst):
- Advanced investment and financial analysis skills.
- Expertise in portfolio management and ethics.
Also Read – How are CFA And Financial Modeling Connected?
Investment Banking:
- Specialized knowledge in corporate finance.
- Skills for financial advisory and transactions.
Equity Research:
- Deepened understanding of stock markets.
- Analysis of financial statements for insights.
Financial Analytics:
- Master data analysis for decision-making.
- Application of analytics in interpreting trends.
FRM (Financial Risk Manager):
- Specialization in risk management.
- Expertise in identifying and mitigating financial risks.
MBA Finance:
- Leadership development with a finance focus.
- Broadened financial management knowledge.
Learn tools like Excel, PowerBi, Tableau & more in classrooms near you
Financial Modelling as an Add-On Certification
Adding financial modelling to your professional repertoire is more than just a certification—it’s an enhancement of your existing qualifications. Whether you come from a finance, accounting, or business background, this certification provides a versatile skill set that elevates your analytical abilities and transforms theoretical knowledge into practical expertise. Its compatibility with various professional courses makes it a valuable supplement, enriching your skills and expanding career opportunities in finance, investment, and strategic planning. Choosing financial modelling is not just a certification; it’s a strategic step towards a more diversified and impactful professional journey.
Skills Needed for a Successful Financial Modelling Career
- Analytical skills for effective research.
- Proficiency in MS Excel and other tools.
- Attention to detail in handling financial data.
- Importance of presentation skills.
- The role of accounting knowledge and strategic planning.
Salary for Certified Financial Modelers
On average, salaries in the financial modelling field span from ₹3.2 Lakhs to ₹44 Lakhs, with an annual average salary of ₹9.5 Lakhs.
- Beginners can earn an average salary of ₹2.5-₹3 to ₹5 LPA.
- Seniors can earn an average salary of ₹7-₹9 LPA up to ₹44 LPA depending on experience.
IMS Proschool’s CFA & Financial Modelling Program
IMS Proschool stands out as one of India’s top institutes for CFA and financial modelling courses. Pioneering financial modelling education, our institute offers two courses, Financial Modelling Plus and Financial Modelling Advanced, led by experienced industry professionals. Focused on core finance concepts and advanced topics, our courses prioritize practical and active learning. Graduates receive placement assistance, and industry certifications, and benefit from innovative teaching methods. Choose IMS Proschool to kickstart your journey as a financial modelling CFA expert.
- Duration: Choose between 3 and 5-month courses.
- Curriculum: Covers core and advanced finance concepts by industry experts.
- Placement: Assistance for securing roles in renowned organizations.
- Certifications: Earn financial modelling and NSE certifications.
- Teaching: Recognized for innovative methods.
- Career Path: Ideal for aspiring financial modelling CFA experts.
FAQs
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Why is financial modelling considered a crucial skill in 2024?
Financial modelling is crucial in 2024 as it aids in predicting and analyzing financial trends, enhancing decision-making processes, and supporting various business functions.
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What are the benefits of pursuing a financial modelling course alongside ACCA, CFA, or MBA?
Pursuing a financial modelling course alongside ACCA, CFA, or MBA offers the benefit of honing practical skills, improving analytical abilities, and adding a specialized skill set, making graduates more versatile in the finance industry.
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How does financial modelling contribute to strategic planning in businesses?
Financial modelling contributes to strategic planning by providing a structured approach to analyzing data, forecasting future performance, and making informed decisions based on a company’s financial health.
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Can financial modelling certification enhance job prospects for fresh graduates?
Yes, financial modelling certification can enhance job prospects for fresh graduates by making them more competitive, showcasing practical skills, and opening doors to roles in investment banking, equity research, and corporate finance.
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What distinguishes financial modelling professionals in terms of salary and job roles?
Financial modelling professionals stand out in terms of salary and job roles due to their ability to create accurate financial projections, assist in decision-making, and contribute to a company’s financial strategy, leading to lucrative career opportunities.
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Is financial modelling in demand?
Yes, financial modelling is in demand as businesses increasingly rely on data-driven decision-making, and professionals skilled in financial modelling are sought after for their ability to analyze and interpret financial data.
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Which is better: CFA or financial modelling?
Comparing CFA and financial modelling depends on career goals; CFA is broader, while financial modelling is more specialized. Both complement each other for a comprehensive skill set.
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Can I get a job after financial modelling?
Yes, getting a job after financial modelling is feasible, especially in areas like investment banking, private equity, and corporate finance, where the skill is highly valued.
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Is financial modelling tough or easy?
The difficulty of financial modelling varies, but with proper training and practice, it becomes manageable. Practical application and real-world scenarios enhance the learning process.
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What is the salary of financial modelling after 5 years?
The salary of financial modelling professionals after 5 years can range widely from ₹3 LPA to ₹9 LPA with an average annual salary of ₹5 LPA. Salaries may differ based on factors like industry, location, and experience but often see substantial growth with accumulated expertise.
Dwij K
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