A financial analyst is a professional who performs financial analysis, which involves using financial data to make informed decisions about investments, budgets, and other financial matters. They typically work for banks, investment firms, insurance companies, and other financial institutions. They may also work for non-financial companies that need to make financial decisions. Financial analysts use financial statements and other data to evaluate the performance of companies, industries, and markets. They also use financial models to forecast future performance and make recommendations to management or clients.