An international financial advisor counsels clients on investments, insurance real estate development, and personal and business finance options worldwide. Other areas included in the counsel provided by advisors include wealth, global fund, and asset management. Individuals who work with international financial advisors often do so for the expertise that advisors can provide about off-shore investments and investing in the global marketplace. Some advisors provide only advisory services, but others also manage their clients’ investment portfolios. Investment financial advisors also specialize in the clients they serve, such as high net worth individuals or small business owners.
The fields related to international financial advice include private banking, brokerage, and trading on various stock markets. Experienced advisors with a well-rounded knowledge base of finance can often attract clients in need of wealth management expertise on the international level. For example, an international financial advisor with a brokerage background may be able to convince some clients to choose him to give financial advice on publicly traded funds. Financial advisors must often follow industry and government regulations when providing brokerage and other financial advice. It is possible for an international financial advisor to lose his license or ability to practice if he does not comply with the relevant regulations.
Clients who work with international financial advisors often expect them to provide customized solutions that will enable them to meet their financial goals. The main difference between a domestic and an international advisor is the knowledge of and access to global financial products. Advisors often need to understand the language and culture of the international markets they work in to provide the expertise that their clients need. For example, some advisors specialize in a few regions and often travel to countries in those areas to keep abreast of regulatory and financial activities that may impact the wealth of their clients.
Individuals often need a college degree in order to become a financial advisor. Some international financial advisor firms require or at least prefer a master's in business administration degree. Advisors may also be required to travel outside of their country of citizenship to meet with clients or to get additional training. The ability to speak one or more languages in addition to English is often a plus for advisors seeking a job in the industry. A certified financial advisor may also be able to compete more effectively in the marketplace, because prospective employers and clients often deem those who are certified as more knowledgeable about international finance.