Research Analyst

Experience: 2-4 years
Type: Full-time
Location: Onsite

About the Role

We are urgently seeking a Research Analyst to produce high-quality research on African financial markets, macroeconomic trends, and investment opportunities. You will analyze market data, write research reports, and provide actionable insights for institutional clients across fixed income, commodities, equities, and FX markets. This role requires strong analytical skills, excellent writing ability, and deep understanding of African economies.

Responsibilities

Market Research & Analysis

  • Conduct research on African financial markets, economies, and sectors.
  • Analyze macroeconomic indicators, monetary policy, and fiscal developments.
  • Monitor fixed income markets (government bonds, corporate bonds, money markets).
  • Track commodities markets (gold, cocoa, oil, agriculture) and price trends.
  • Analyze FX markets, currency movements, and central bank policies.
  • Research equity markets and identify investment opportunities.

Report Writing & Publications

  • Write daily, weekly, and monthly market commentary and research notes.
  • Produce in-depth thematic reports on sectors, countries, and market trends.
  • Create client-facing investment research and trade ideas.
  • Develop economic forecasts and scenario analysis.
  • Contribute to flagship publications and market outlooks.
  • Maintain high editorial standards and meet publication deadlines.

Client Support & Intelligence

  • Respond to client inquiries with timely research and data.
  • Prepare customized research briefs for institutional clients.
  • Support client presentations and investment committee meetings.
  • Provide market color and insights during client calls.
  • Monitor breaking news and provide rapid analysis of market-moving events.

Data Collection & Monitoring

  • Track and compile market data from central banks, statistical agencies, and exchanges.
  • Build and maintain databases of economic indicators and market prices.
  • Monitor news sources, government announcements, and regulatory updates.
  • Create charts, tables, and visualizations for research publications.
  • Ensure accuracy and reliability of all data used in research.

Collaboration & Special Projects

  • Work with Trading, Advisory, and Sales teams on market insights.
  • Support business development with market entry analysis and opportunity assessments.
  • Participate in research team meetings and strategy discussions.
  • Contribute to special projects on African markets and investment themes.
  • Represent the research team at industry conferences and events.

Requirements

Core Qualifications

  • Strong experience in financial markets research, economic analysis, or investment research.
  • Deep knowledge of African economies and financial markets (West Africa preferred).
  • Proven ability to write clear, compelling research reports.
  • Understanding of fixed income, commodities, FX, or equity markets.

Technical Skills

  • Proficiency in Excel (financial modeling, data analysis).
  • Experience with Bloomberg Terminal or similar market data platforms.
  • Strong data analysis and interpretation skills.
  • Familiarity with statistical tools (EViews, Stata, R) is a plus.
  • Ability to create professional charts and presentations.

Core Competencies

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities.
  • Attention to detail with commitment to accuracy.
  • Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
  • Self-motivated with intellectual curiosity about markets.
  • Strong understanding of macroeconomics and finance principles.

Nice to Have

  • Experience covering multiple African markets (Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, Ivory Coast).
  • Knowledge of central bank operations and monetary policy frameworks.
  • Understanding of regulatory environments across African jurisdictions.
  • Experience with Python for data analysis and automation.
  • Familiarity with sovereign credit analysis and rating methodologies.
  • Previous experience in sell-side or buy-side research.
  • CFA Level I, II, or III candidate.
  • Master’s degree in Economics, Finance, or related field.
  • Bilingual capabilities (English + French for Francophone markets).