Series 86 : Research Analyst Exam

About this course

Short Course SummaryThis course prepares you for the Series 86 portion of the Research Analyst exam, focusing on economic/industry data collection, financial statement analysis, valuation models, and forecasting required to produce investment recommendations. Long, Catchy & Professional Course Description The Analyst's Toolkit: Master the Data Science of the MarketsThe FINRA Series 86 is the crucial analytical component of the qualification for Research Analysts who prepare written or electronic communications that analyze equity securities and/or companies and industry sectors. This exam validates your technical and quantitative proficiency in transforming raw data into actionable investment conclusions.Unlike the general representative exams, the Series 86 delves deep into corporate and financial analysis, aligning your skills with the rigorous demands of "sell-side" equity research desks. This intensive course breaks down the complex analytical process into the three core job functions tested on the exam (85 scored questions):Function 1: Information and Data Collection (18 Questions): Learn where to find, how to gather, and what to look for in macroeconomic data (GDP, inflation, interest rates), industry-specific trends (e.g., market size, growth rate, regulatory issues), and individual company filings (10-Ks, 10-Qs, financial statements).Function 2: Data Verification and Analysis (28 Questions): Master fundamental analysis by scrutinizing financial statements, understanding the inter-relationships of the three financial statements (Income Statement, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow Statement), and calculating key financial metrics and ratios (e.g., margins, Return on Equity (ROE), leverage ratio