Which companies require analysts to learn Python?

In 2018, in an attempt to stand out as an analyst, I created a couple of machine learning algorithms for a top debt firm. They helped my team, and that helped my career, so I started a business teaching other finance professionals to code in Python.

The same year, a few top shops started pushing Python training  for analysts (https://www.ft.com/content/4c17d6ce-c8b2-11e8-ba8f-ee390057b8c9). Several of them ended up using my material, and in 2020, the business began providing me with a passive income. I sold half of my equity in 2021 and the remainder last February.

I recently started teaching Python again, but I am not as closely connected to the industry as I used to be, and the advent of LLMs has dramatically changed the environment, so I thought I would ask you all for some first-hand intelligence.

Which companies, if any, are still training finance employees to code in Python? Is this still a major initiative for JPMorgan, for example, or have they moved on to Copilot / ChatGPT?

I would like to deliver my skill where it is needed to make money, but I do not want to spend time promoting something that is no longer in demand on the front lines. Could those of you in the vanguard please help me to understand the situation on the ground?

3 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights regarding the relevance of Python in the finance industry:

  1. High Demand for Programming Skills: Programming abilities, particularly in SQL and Python, are highly valued in the finance industry. These skills are not just for developers and quants but are increasingly important for various roles within finance.

  2. SQL and Python in Finance:

    • SQL: Essential for managing and harvesting data stored in databases. It's crucial for data analysis and decision-making processes.
    • Python: Known for its power and versatility, Python is widely used for data analysis, machine learning, and automation tasks in finance.
  3. Industry Trends:

    • There has been a significant push for Python training among analysts in top finance firms. This trend was particularly noted around 2018, with several firms adopting Python training programs for their employees.
    • The advent of tools like Copilot and ChatGPT has introduced new dynamics, but the foundational skills in Python remain valuable.
  4. Current Relevance:

    • While the specific companies currently emphasizing Python training were not detailed in the provided context, the general trend indicates that programming skills, including Python, continue to be in demand.
    • Firms like JPMorgan have historically been at the forefront of integrating technology and programming skills into their operations. It is likely that they, along with other top firms, still value these skills, even as they explore new technologies like AI and machine learning.

For more detailed and updated information, you might want to check recent discussions and threads on Wall Street Oasis or similar finance forums.

Sources: Programming/Technical Skills for Finance: SQL and Python, Programming/Technical Skills for Finance: SQL and Python, WSO Python / Machine Learning Courses - NOW AVAILABLE

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Just search Indeed: Python.

"If you always put limits on everything you do, physical or anything else, it will spread into your work and into your life. There are no limits. There are only plateaus, and you must not stay there, you must go beyond them." - Bruce Lee
 

Qui cumque voluptas incidunt amet. Quo modi debitis doloremque aut aspernatur maxime.

Beatae voluptas sint recusandae in voluptatem nobis consequuntur. Quia necessitatibus vitae similique qui vel voluptas. Accusamus maiores aliquam ullam non incidunt a.

Laborum id accusamus maxime quo impedit a. Animi magni optio quos consequatur molestiae. Et dolorum ea corporis culpa voluptate quasi ea. Quaerat possimus doloribus sint consequuntur nihil saepe excepturi. Dolorem non sint voluptatem occaecati quo ducimus.

Omnis fugit non veritatis nulla incidunt sed dolor molestiae. Commodi omnis vitae sapiente eos. Numquam libero minus optio vel. Suscipit perspiciatis quasi aut occaecati et maxime. Tempore sit ea animi iure pariatur ipsam voluptatem.

www.machinelearningedge.com

Career Advancement Opportunities

November 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 99.0%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.4%
  • Guggenheim Partners 02 97.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 06 97.4%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

November 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.5%
  • Morgan Stanley 02 99.0%
  • Evercore 01 98.4%
  • Banco Santander 02 97.9%
  • BMO Capital Markets 13 97.4%

Professional Growth Opportunities

November 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 99.0%
  • Morgan Stanley 05 98.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.9%
  • JPMorgan No 97.4%

Total Avg Compensation

November 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (16) $429
  • Associates (57) $264
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (29) $183
  • Intern/Summer Associate (16) $161
  • 1st Year Analyst (84) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (76) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”