What Is a Buy-Side Analyst?

By Matthew Frankel, CFP – Updated Apr 17, 2025 at 12:13 AM EST

Key Points

Buy-side analysts select stocks for their firms, using both in-house and sell-side research.
Their insights aim to outperform the market, benefiting only their firm or client.
Unlike sell-side analysts, buy-side analysts' strategies and findings are not public.

There are two types of Wall Street analysts who research stocks and provide their opinions of their investment merits. The two categories are known as buy-side and sell-side analysts. Many investors only have experience with sell-side analysts and may not even be aware that there is a difference.

Because buy-side analysts aren't as well-known, we'll explore what they are, what they do, and why they matter to investors like you and me.

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About the Author

Matt Frankel, CFP, is a contributing Motley Fool stock market analyst and personal finance expert covering financial stocks, REITs, SPACs, and personal finance. Prior to The Motley Fool, Matt taught high school and college mathematics. He holds a bachelor’s degree in physics from the University of South Carolina, a master’s degree in mathematics from Nova Southeastern University, and a graduate certificate in financial planning from Florida State University. He won a SABEW award for coverage of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. He is also regularly interviewed by Cheddar, The National Desk, and other TV networks and publications for his financial, stock market, and investing expertise.

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JPMorgan Chase is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Matt Frankel has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Apple and JPMorgan Chase. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.