| Aspect | Full Time Trading Desk | Equity Trader |
|---|
| Credentials | Finance degree, licensing (e.g., Series 7, 63) | Finance degree, licensing (e.g., Series 7, 63) |
| Work Environment | Team-based, fast-paced trading floor or office | Individual or team trading, often in a similar environment |
| Employer & Industry | Investment banks, asset management firms, hedge funds | Brokerages, investment firms, hedge funds |
| Primary Focus | Managing a trading desk, executing large trades | Trading specific securities, mainly equities |
The main difference is that a Full Time Trading Desk refers to the entire team or department responsible for executing trades, while an Equity Trader is an individual who executes trades in stocks. Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable environments, but the Trading Desk encompasses the broader operational team, whereas the Equity Trader focuses on executing specific trades within that team.