An equity trader performs research and analysis to decide when to buy or sell shares of a company on an equities market. In addition to common stocks, your duties can include trading options, futures, exchange-traded funds, and other derivatives. Equity traders analyze data, look at charts, and ensure that the trade meets the requirements of their employer and government regulations. An equities trader can work for an investment bank, a private equity firm, or other financial institution. Some traders work independently. Your trading responsibilities can focus on one specific industry or type of equity.