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<p>By “analyst”, I’m assuming you’re referring to M+A advisory/corp finance, correct me if I’m wrong.</p>
<p>If it was as easy as you make it sound, everyone and their mother would be doing it and there would be no incentive for firms to pay that much. It’s not just math, you’ll come to learn that much of finance is theory and gut instinct based.</p>
<p>While it’s true that the math itself may not be difficult at its core…you have to be able to figure out what all the numbers mean. You have to be able to think outside of the box and connect the dots. These problem solving and critical thinking abilities which are prevalent in this type of employee is what sets them apart. It is also these same skills that enables them to demand such a high level of compensation.</p>
<p>Simply looking at industrial/sector analysis, income statements, balance sheets, cash flows, etc… is not enough. You have to understand how all of the pieces fit together in order to make a sound judgment. This is precisely why it is very difficult to get into the field and become successful at it; not many people can put the puzzle pieces together.</p>