Not everyone can take even the most basic Financial Services for granted.
Around the world, an estimated two billion adults lack access to an account at a formal financial institution.
Some countries are, slowly but surely, improving by recognising the importance of financial inclusion.
The Brookings Financial and Digital Inclusion Project (FDIP) monitors this progress in 21 countries and, according its latest report, Kenya, South Africa, Brazil, Rwanda and Uganda are now the top scorers.
Here in Scotland, meanwhile, there is also good news. While our own financial services industry has, of course, been established for hundreds of years, it continues to grow and prosper.
If ever proof were needed the sector is in health ruder than a Chubby Brown joke, news has come that International Financial Data Services is to create more than 100 new jobs at its base in Stirling.
Scottish Government Business Minister Fergus Ewing commented: “Scotland’s Financial Services sector is one of Scotland’s key strengths and enjoys a great reputation thanks to the skills, experience and commitment of our workforce.”
That reputation includes an entire army of Financial Advisers, much sought after for their work in investment proposition, taxation and trust, and retirement planning, among many other areas.
One other skill that is red hot right now is Paraplanning.
Not to be confused with paraplaning, which involves a motorised parachute, the role of Paraplanner is vital in helping Financial Advisers and Financial Planners in tasks such as preparing and administering financial reports for clients.
Also known in financial circles as Senior Administrator, the modern Paraplanner’s mission has developed over the years.
The Paraplanner now works as part of a team alongside the Adviser to provide clients with a professional ongoing Financial Planning experience.
While their precise mission will vary according to the nature of the company or Financial Adviser, core financial skills are a must for any Paraplanner.
So, too, is the ability to analyse statistics and write reports – such as suitability reports – as well as conduct research for providers and investors.
Daily work might also include compiling draft net worth statements and financial cashflow forecasts.
Underpinning all of this, of course, will be a thorough understanding of compliance issues.
One final but important point to bear in mind. When responding to one of the excellent Paraplanner vacancies on s1jobs, be sure to double-check the spelling: otherwise you might find yourself strapped to a paraplane at 10,000ft!
Check out the latest Financial Services jobs now.