Financial markets are dynamic, highly specialised and constantly evolving. This means financial market professionals need to keep up to date with the latest developments to remain competitive and keep their skills honed. This need for ongoing skills development was highlighted in the World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report for 2025, which notes that there has been a considerable rise in on-the-job training across almost all industries, with pensions management and insurance seeing the most significant increases in demand for vocational training.

In this article, we will look at the skills needed to succeed in the field of financial markets and look at some of the academic qualifications, professional certifications and financial courses in South Africa that can be pursued by aspiring financial market professionals.

 

 

 

Overview of key skills for a career in financial markets

Pursuing a career in financial markets requires a mix of several hard and soft skills. There are many different roles and career paths within the broader financial markets, each requiring a specific set of skills, but the following are some of the general skills that most financial markets professionals will require to succeed.

 

Analytical and quantitative skills

Financial markets rely heavily on data-driven decision-making. Professionals must interpret economic indicators, assess financial statements and apply statistical models to forecast trends. 

According to the World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report for 2025, analytical thinking is considered by most employers to be the top core skill and one of a handful of other key skills that the report's authors said are "not only considered critical now but are also projected to become even more important". 

Data analysis and interpretation

Financial markets generate an enormous amount of data, with prices fluctuating throughout the day based on supply and demand across the globe. Data analysis and interpretation are two skills that allow financial market professionals to make informed investment decisions based on the available market data. With the help of statistical tools and software, skilled analysts can sift through this data to identify trends and patterns that help them to predict future market movements.

Data analysts need a strong foundation in mathematics, statistics and analytical thinking, while knowledge of data visualisation techniques can also help in sharing insights with other team members or stakeholders.

 

Quantitative finance

Quantitative finance makes use of mathematical models and computational techniques to inform financial decisions. It provides financial market professionals with tools to predict market movements so they can trade more profitably, manage investment portfolios better and accurately price derivatives.

Professionals seeking to specialise in this area will need strong mathematical skills, including statistical analysis and stochastic calculus. Other key skills include time series analysis, financial modelling and algorithmic trading.

 

Technical and trading skills

In the realm of financial markets, technical skills do not refer to hands-on mechanical or electronic skills, but rather to the use of technical charts and other technical indicators to better understand market mechanics and to mitigate risk in financial trading.

 

Technical analysis

Technical analysis involves studying price charts, trends and various indicators such as moving averages and relative strength index (RSI) to predict future movements. Modern technical analysis has evolved beyond traditional chart patterns to incorporate algorithmic pattern recognition and statistical validation methods.

While this reliance on data is similar to quantitative analysis, it differs in approach in that it assumes that market psychology and behaviour tends to repeat in recognisable patterns that can inform trading decisions. 

 

Risk management techniques

Risk is an innate part of financial markets and financial market professionals need to carefully balance the risk of losses against potential profits. Various risk management techniques are available to help investors protect their investments from loss. 

Tools such as value at risk (VaR), stress testing and scenario analysis are often used to quantify risk levels and develop strategies to minimise exposure. Some common risk mitigation strategies include diversification, hedging and stop-loss orders.

Effective risk management skills are of great importance when managing investment portfolios and these skills are in high demand. 

 

Knowledge of financial instruments

Financial markets are made up of a wide range of financial instruments. Anyone looking to invest or trade in financial markets should understand the different instruments available, along with the strengths and weaknesses so that they can appropriately manage the investments. 

Professionals must know how these instruments are structured, traded and priced to design optimal investment strategies and provide value to clients. Some of the more common instruments include equities, bonds, derivatives, commodities and foreign exchange (Forex), each of which behaves differently under different market conditions.

To learn more about these different markets and instruments, please look at our earlier article on how best to navigate financial markets, where we go into far more detail on equity markets, bond markets, derivatives and Forex.

 

Regulatory and ethical awareness

Financial markets are a subject to a complex set of regulations, both globally and within each country’s jurisdiction. Professionals need to be well aware of these regulations to remain compliant. 

In addition to legal compliance, there is also an increasing focus on ethical behaviour by traders and advisors. In its Sector Skills Plan for 2025 to 2030, South Africa’s BankSeta identified ESG (economic, social and governance), as one of the five key skill change drivers for the banking industry. ESG, also known as sustainable investing, socially responsible investing or ethical investing, is a set of criteria or a framework by which investors seek to invest in companies that prioritise environmental, social issues and corporate governance issues.

 

Understanding financial regulations

Financial markets are governed by complex regulatory frameworks designed to maintain stability and protect investors. These regulations cover many aspects of the industry, including trading practices, reporting requirements and consumer protection. Professionals need a strong grasp of international regulations such as the Basel Accords as well as local laws to operate effectively and ethically.

Globally, the WEF’s Future of Jobs Reports for 2023 lists regulation compliance as an emerging priority as a result of the trend towards ESG investing. Within South Africa, finance professionals should be familiar with the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services (FAIS) Act, the Credit Ratings Services Act, the Financial Markets Act as well as the guidelines set out by the King III governance report.

 

Ethical decision-making in finance

Aside from complying with legal requirements, financial market professionals are expected to behave ethically. Ethics in finance entails fostering transparency, integrity and accountability and helps to build trust and sustain long-term success in the industry. Training in ethics fosters a culture of integrity and teaches professionals how to navigate ethical dilemmas that may arise in their work. 

 

Core components of a financial markets education

The core components of a financial markets education must balance theoretical foundations with applied skills that prepare professionals for increasingly dynamic and technology-driven markets.

 

Investment analysis and portfolio management

Investment analysis and portfolio management are the cornerstone disciplines for financial market practitioners. The following are some of the skills, techniques and knowledge that finance professionals require to successfully manage an investment portfolio.

 

Equity and fixed income analysis

The equity and fixed income markets are two of the largest financial markets in the world and form the backbone of most investment portfolios. Equities are stocks that are traded on the stock market, while fixed income refers to debt and credit markets.

Equity analysis involves evaluating stocks to determine their intrinsic value, while fixed income analysis focuses on assessing bonds and other debt instruments. This involves understanding valuation techniques for stocks and bonds, analysing financial statements and assessing macroeconomic factors that influence market performance.

Mastering these techniques enables professionals to construct well-balanced investment portfolios that suit their client’s investment goals and appetite for risk.

Asset allocation techniques

Asset allocation refers to the strategic distribution of investments across asset classes. There are several well-established asset allocation techniques, each with its own benefits depending on the investor’s profile.

Professionals must consider factors such as risk tolerance, time horizon and market conditions to achieve optimal returns and manage portfolio risks effectively. For example, someone approaching retirement is likely to have less appetite for risk than those who are still starting out their career and who have time to see out multiple market upturns and downturns before they reach retirement age.

Some common strategies include: 

• Strategic asset allocation
• Constant-weighting asset allocation
• Tactical asset allocation
• Dynamic asset allocation
• Insured asset allocation
• Integrated asset allocation

 

Financial derivatives and trading

Derivatives are financial instruments whose value is derived from the performance of underlying assets, such as stocks, bonds, commodities, currencies or interest rates. Derivative markets allow investors to trade derivative products without owning the underlying assets. Education in derivatives requires both mathematical understanding of pricing models and practical knowledge of market conventions and trading platforms.

 

Options, futures and swaps

Options, futures and swaps are different types of derivatives that investors use to hedge against risks or speculate on price movements. By understanding how these derivatives work, traders are able implement sophisticated trading strategies that can yield significant returns while managing risk exposure.

We went into more details on various derivatives in an earlier article and you can read more about futures and options as well as swaps and forwards.

 

Algorithmic trading strategies

Algorithmic trading, also known as "algo trading" or autotrading, involves the use of automated systems to execute trades at high speed based on predefined criteria. The rise of algorithmic trading strategies has transformed the landscape of financial markets by enabling high-frequency trading and the leveraging of computational power to identify and exploit market opportunities without the interference of human sentiment or emotion.

Professionals trained in this area learn how to develop algorithms that execute trades at optimal prices while minimising transaction costs. Developing effective algorithmic strategies requires interdisciplinary knowledge spanning finance, computer science and statistics. 

 

Macroeconomics and global finance

Macroeconomics looks at economics on a large scale, focusing on how national economies perform and interact with each other within the global financial landscape. It looks at fiscal and monetary policies and examines factors such as international trade, changes in a country’s economic output, inflation, interest rates and foreign exchange rates. Investors and policy makers must have a thorough understanding of how these elements interact when carrying out their jobs.

 

Understanding global market trends

Financial market professionals need a thorough understanding of global market trends in order to make informed investment decisions. These trends are influenced by several different economic indicators, such as growth rates, inflation and unemployment figures, as well as by geopolitical events and policy decisions. 

At the time of writing this article, global markets have been heavily impacted by US President Donald Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs on US imports that have sparked off retaliatory tariffs by several other nations and caused great uncertainty across global markets.

 

Currency and commodities markets

Professionals involved in international finance or trade need to understand currency and commodities markets to be able to manage risk and to better predict price fluctuations. These markets are influenced by factors such as interest rates, inflation, geopolitical stability and the dynamics of supply and demand.

 

Impact of central bank policies

Central banks such as South Africa’s Reserve Bank play an important role in directing and guiding financial markets. While decisions made by the Reserve Bank have the most impact locally, decisions by the US Federal Reserve can spark massive market shifts across the entire globe.

Central banks shape market dynamics through interest rate decisions, quantitative easing and other monetary policies. Decisions over interest rates have predictable influences on certain markets. For example, when the US Federal Reserve lowers interest rates, this causes investors to shift from interest bearing bonds to stocks, which in turn pushes up stock prices making them even more attractive. It also causes investors to move stocks from emerging markets to US stocks to seek better returns.

 

Behavioural finance and market psychology

While financial markets are thought to operate in a purely rational way, the decisions are for the most part made by humans, who are prone to a variety of psychological influences. As a result, financial market professionals need an understanding of the psychology behind many market moves.

 

Cognitive biases and market impact

Cognitive biases, such as overconfidence and herd behaviour, often drive market movements and can lead investors to make decisions that defy rational behaviour.

Understanding and recognising these biases allows finance professionals to develop strategies that mitigate their effects on investment outcomes.

 

Sentiment analysis techniques

Market sentiment refers to the overall mood or impression that investors and market players have towards a specific stock or financial asset. When the general view is that a stock is going to go up, then markets can be said to be bullish. Conversely, whenever the mood is negative and prices are expected to go down, then it is called a bear market, or bearish.

Sentiment analysis techniques are used to quantify data related to the sentiment of the market. This is done through analysing available public data such as news reports, social media posts and financial reports. Gaining a better understanding of market sentiment allows financial professionals to better predict when prices may change as a result of public perception rather than underlying fundamentals of a financial asset.

 

Building emotional intelligence in trading

Market sentiment and cognitive biases show that emotions can play a factor in investment decisions. Traders need to develop their emotional intelligence to prevent them falling into similar traps when making investment decisions. 

By developing emotional intelligence, traders are better able to manage their stress during periods of market volatility and to avoid making impulsive or emotional decisions. Aspects of emotional intelligence that are especially important for traders include self-awareness, discipline and resilience. Other aspects such as patience, motivation, empathy and general social skills are also important skills for succeeding in almost any business environment. 

 

Combining key financial market courses

To best succeed in the field of finance requires a mix of formal academic qualifications together with additional professional certification within a specific focus area. Next we will look at some of the more common professional associations and designations within the field.

 

Risk management and compliance

Whether investing an individual client's life savings or managing a large corporate portfolio, much trust is placed on finance professionals and they carry a large responsibility to maintain this trust. Inherent in this trust is the expectation that risks will be minimised and that all legal and regulatory requirements are met.

 

Financial risk manager (FRM) certification

The Global Association of Risk Professionals (Garp) is responsible for the Financial Risk Manager (FRM) certification. By completing this certification, professionals show that they have a solid grasp of topics such as credit risk, market risk and operational risk.

The certification requires 240 hours of study to cover the course material, followed by two multiple choice examinations. To complete the certification, applicants must also prove two years' worth of relevant work experience in the field of financial risk.

Although this is an international qualification and it does not fall within South Africa’s National Qualifications Framework (NQF), an independent benchmarking study put it as the equivalent of a Masters degree at NQF level 9.

Something that makes this qualification somewhat unusual is that there are no educational requirements for applying for this programme, unlike the majority of Masters-level programmes that require either a relevant Honours degree or another postgraduate qualification such as a postgraduate diploma.

While it is likely that applicants would have already had some formal education to allow them to gain the required work experience, this certification could provide some candidates with a relatively short pathway to a Masters-level qualification.

If you would like to learn more about this certification, you can read these FAQs on the Garp website.

 

Understanding regulatory frameworks

Financial markets are highly regulated at both the global and national level and financial market professionals need to understand all the regulations and laws that pertain to their area of operations.

The South African Institute of Stockbrokers offers a Financial Markets Professional Regulatory Recognition (FMPRR) certification that focuses on the regulations that apply to South Africa’s financial markets. As of 2025, the SAIS has seven different membership levels, ranging from the introductory Certified Stockbroker (SA) up to that of Certified Financial Markets Professional (SA) Portfolio and Investment Management.

The South African Institute of Financial Markets (SAIFM) is another professional association in South Africa offering membership and certifications for finance professionals. It also regularly offers a range of masterclasses and workshops on various topics such as anti-money laundering compliance and risk management.

 

Anti-money laundering (AML) compliance

Money laundering through financial markets is a global problem and many new regulations have come in force to combat this scourge. Anti-money laundering (AML) compliance involves identifying suspicious activity and carrying out thorough due diligence to ensure that neither money laundering nor the financing of terrorist organisations can take place.

AML compliance has become a greater priority in South Africa as a result of the country being placed on the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF’s) grey list in 2023, indicating that the country has insufficient safeguards against money laundering or terrorist financing.

The Compliance Institute of Southern Africa is the local body responsible for ensuring compliance with financial market regulations in South Africa. It is a member of the International Federation of Compliance Associations, which is an umbrella organisation made up of professional associations that specialise in the practice of compliance within their own country.

The Compliance Institute of Southern Africa offers a range of compliance-related certifications, including a specialised professional designation specific to the prevention of money laundering, the Anti-Money Laundering Compliance Practitioner (SA) certification. 

To apply for the AMLC Practitioner (SA) qualification, applicants require a Matric certificate at the bare minimum along with seven years of relevant work experience in the field of AML. Applicants with higher levels of relevant education require fewer years of practical experience depending on the level of previous study. Those with an NQF level 7 or higher qualification only require three years of practical work experience.

Other options to study short courses on AML include a short learning programme on money laundering control offered by UJ. This is a part time qualification, but it is not offered online. To qualify for the programme, applicants require a Bachelor’s degree in law or commerce or an equivalent qualification at NQF Level 7.

 

Technical analysis and quantitative finance

As we discussed earlier, technical analysis and quantitative finance are two different approaches or strategies for examining markets and predicting future price changes.

The Financial Technical Analysts Society of Southern Africa (Tassa) is South Africa’s local body representing technical analysts in South Africa and is affiliated with the International Federation of Technical Analysts (IFTA). It offers support and resources for professionals pursuing the Certified Financial Technician (CFTe) and the Master of Financial Technical Analysis (MFTA) designations.

The CFA Society South Africa is the local affiliate of the global CFA Institute and it is responsible for managing the chartered financial analyst (CFA) professional designation.

 

Technical analysis designations

As the local representative for the International Federation of Technical Analysts (IFTA), the Financial Technical Analysts Society of Southern Africa (Tassa) offers two technical analysis certifications and designations.

 

Certified Financial Technician (CFTe) 

The Certified Financial Technician (CFTe) is an internationally-recognised designation that is awarded to technical analysts who have completed a two-level certification to prove their practical knowledge and understanding of technical analysis. It's often pursued by professionals working in trading, investment analysis, portfolio management or market research.

The CFTe is open to anyone with an interest in technical analysis, though a background in finance, economics or mathematics is beneficial.

 

Master of Financial Technical Analysis (MFTA)

The Master of Financial Technical Analysis (MFTA) designation is the IFTA’s highest professional designation. It is awarded to professionals who have carried out independent research and shown sufficient mastery of technical analysis to be able to contribute towards new thought towards the field. 

Applicants for the MFTA certification need to have already completed the CFTe certification and must be a member of an IFTA-affiliated association, such as Tassa. As a top-level certification, applicants will usually have acquired many years of experience working in the field of technical analysis before seeking this designation.

 

Quantitative finance designations

Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

The CFA programme is a globally recognised qualification covering investment analysis, portfolio management and ethical standards. It includes substantial content on quantitative methods. The designation is offered by the CFA Institute, represented locally by the CFA Society South Africa.

Unlike many of the other certifications that we have mentioned that can be completed relatively quickly, the CFA certificate requires three to four years to complete. The programme consists of three progressive levels and sets of examinations. Study is done at the student’s own pace, but it is expected that each level requires 300 hours of work to complete.   

To enter the programme, applicants should hold a Bachelor’s degree, be in the final year of their degree, or have a combination of 4,000 hours of work and higher education experience over at least three years.

The CFA certification is recognised by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and can provide exemptions in certain local regulatory exams. Notably, South African law requires that those in certain key positions such as fund managers at large investment firms hold the CFA certification.

 

 

Exploring advanced diplomas in finance

In South Africa, an advanced diploma is a qualification pegged at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 7, equivalent to a bachelor's degree. These programmes are designed to provide specialised knowledge and practical skills in a specific field, building upon prior learning or work experience.

 

Curriculum structure

Advanced diplomas can usually be completed over one to two years, depending on the mode of study. UJ’s fully online Advanced Diploma in Financial Markets takes 20 months to complete and is made up of either 10 or 11 modules, depending on the student’s prior knowledge of financial mathematics.

The qualification and its curriculum are designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and skills pertinent to the financial industry. Students are assumed to already have some foundational knowledge of financial markets, either through work experience or prior learning. This program is particularly suitable for individuals aiming to advance their careers in financial markets, trading, investment analysis and related areas.

 

Key diplomas and programmes

Advanced Diploma in Financial Markets

An Advanced Diploma in Financial Markets, such as the one offered by the University of Johannesburg, is designed to prepare students for careers in trading, analysis and financial planning. The programme covers topics such as risk management, portfolio management and investment analysis, providing a comprehensive understanding of financial markets. 

You can read more about the curriculum structure earlier in this article, as well as in the FAQ on the Advanced Diploma in Financial Markets. Further details on individual modules and information on how to apply for this programme can be found on the Advanced Diploma in Financial Markets programme page.

 

Postgraduate diplomas in finance and investment

Postgraduate diplomas in finance and investment aim to equip students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills in finance, banking and investment management. These programs are suitable for individuals from both commerce and non-commerce backgrounds seeking to advance their careers in finance.

Admission to postgraduate diplomas requires an undergraduate qualification such as a Bachelor’s degree, with some programmes also requiring additional work experience. This makes the barrier to entry somewhat higher than for an advanced diploma.

 

Diplomas in banking and financial services

Diplomas in banking and financial services offer foundational knowledge in banking principles and financial services. These programmes are specifically designed to prepare students for various roles within the banking sector.

Diplomas are lower on the NQF than advanced or postgraduate diplomas and do not require applicants to have completed any tertiary education. While this makes diplomas more accessible, professionals will have difficulties climbing to the higher rungs of the corporate ladder with a diploma alone.

 

Advantages of advanced diplomas

Broader educational foundation

Advanced diplomas provide a comprehensive educational foundation by blending theoretical knowledge with practical skills. This holistic approach ensures graduates possess both a deep and broad understanding of financial principles, as well as the practical abilities to apply this knowledge effectively in professional settings. 

Such a broad foundation enables versatility and adaptability within various financial roles and also serves as a solid foundation for future specialisation.

 

Preparation for higher qualifications

Completing an advanced diploma serves as an excellent stepping-stone for further academic pursuits, such as an MBA or Masters programme. The rigorous academic structure and practical experience gained through advanced diplomas enhance the skills necessary for success at higher educational levels, thereby increasing students' competitive advantage for admissions into further postgraduate programmes.

 

Comparative analysis: financial market courses vs advanced diplomas

Learning outcomes

Advanced diplomas and certification courses serve distinctly different purposes from each other. Advanced diplomas are academic qualifications managed and offered by academic institutions, while certification courses are usually handled by professional organisations or associations.

Certifications such as the CFA, FRM, CFTe and MFTA are highly specialised and focus on a specific area within the broader financial industry, such as technical analysis, portfolio management or risk assessment. These certification programmes prepare candidates for specific roles and designations within the financial sector and are closely tied to their respective professional associations.

An advanced diploma offers a far broader education, combining the theoretical knowledge of a more academically focused degree together with practical skills specifically needed to enter the workforce. Programmes often include modules on financial markets, trading strategies and regulatory compliance.​

 

Industry recognition

Global certifications such as the CFA and FRM are highly esteemed in the financial industry, often considered prerequisites for certain positions in investment banking, asset management and risk management. They demonstrate a candidate's commitment and expertise in specific areas. 

Like many other academic qualifications, advanced diplomas are immediately recognised within their country of origin, but do not always translate directly between different regional markets. They are valued for their practical approach and ability to prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce. 

In conclusion, it is not so much about choosing one over the other, but it is also about selecting a combination of both formal education and specific industry certifications to achieve your specific career goals. An advanced diploma would serve as a strong entry point into a finance career, allowing graduates the opportunity to gain the work experience that would allow them to pursue more specialised professional certifications and designations.

 

FAQS

 

Study an Advanced Diploma in Financial Markets with UJ

The world of financial markets offers tremendous opportunities for those equipped with the right knowledge and skills. The online Advanced Diploma in Financial Markets from the University of Johannesburg (UJ) is specifically designed to provide you with comprehensive insights and practical expertise to thrive in this exciting and ever-evolving industry.

Visit the Advanced Diploma in Financial Markets programme page to discover how the curriculum aligns with your professional aspirations, whether you're seeking advancement in your current role, a complete career transition, or simply aiming to deepen your understanding of financial markets.

Take the first step towards your future today and reach out to request more information. The UJ admissions team is ready to guide you through the application process, answer your questions and help you embark on your journey toward becoming a skilled financial market professional.