SmartAsset: Financial analyst vs financial advisor Financial analysts and financial advisors are both professionals who help people and organizations achieve their financial goals. The roles are similar and overlapping in some areas but also have specific differences. Financial analysts focus on using data and research to value investments and recommend purchases or sales. Advisors may also do analysis as part of recommending and managing investments but are equally or more concerned with explaining concepts, guiding budgeting and saving and crafting specific plans for funding clients’ retirement, education and other financial goals. A financial advisor can be an important member of your team.   Financial Analysts Financial analysts provide organizations and…