An equity trader conducts research and analysis to determine the best times to buy or sell company shares on the equities market. This can also involve trading options, futures, exchange-traded funds, and other derivatives. They carefully analyze data and charts to ensure that their trades comply with their employer‘s and government regulations. Equity traders can be employed by investment banks, private equity firms, or other financial institutions, or they may work independently. Their trading responsibilities may be focused on a specific industry or type of equity.