<h2>Finance vs. Accounting: Understanding the Differences<img src="https://assets.hiredly.com/cms/image_2025_03_17_100708409_8824460155.png"></h2>Finance and accounting are often used interchangeably, but they serve distinct roles in the business world.<ul><li>Finance focuses on managing assets, investments, and financial strategies to help businesses grow. Professionals in this field analyze risks, forecast market trends, and make data-driven decisions to maximize profitability.</li><li>Accounting deals with recording, reporting, and auditing financial transactions. It ensures businesses comply with regulations, maintain accurate financial records, and manage taxes efficiently.</li></ul>While both careers require strong analytical skills and financial knowledge, they cater to different job functions and career goals.<a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/how-to-approach-passive-candidates-in-malaysia?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=finance_vs._accounting:_which_career_path_is_right_for_you_in_malaysia?&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Related: How to Approach Passive Candidates in Malaysia</a><hr><h2>Job Roles &amp; Responsibilities</h2><h3>Finance Jobs</h3>Finance professionals work across various industries, from banking and investment firms to corporate finance departments. Common roles include:<ul><li>Financial Analyst – Evaluates financial data to guide business decisions.</li><li>Investment Banker – Advises clients on financial transactions such as mergers, acquisitions, and stock offerings.</li><li>Risk Manager – Identifies financial risks and develops strategies to mitigate them.</li><li>Portfolio Manager – Manages investment portfolios for clients or financial institutions.</li><li>Corporate Finance Executive – Oversees budgeting, financial planning, and capital management for a company.</li></ul><a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/what-employers-look-at-during-video-interviews?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=finance_vs._accounting:_which_career_path_is_right_for_you_in_malaysia?&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Related: What Employers Look at During Video Interviews</a><h3>Accounting Jobs</h3>Accounting professionals ensure financial accuracy and regulatory compliance. Common roles include:<ul><li>Auditor – Reviews financial records to ensure compliance with tax and financial regulations.</li><li>Tax Accountant – Specializes in tax planning and filing for individuals or corporations.</li><li>Financial Controller – Manages an organization’s financial reporting and budgeting.</li><li>Management Accountant – Analyzes financial data to assist in business planning and cost management.</li><li>Forensic Accountant – Investigates financial fraud and misconduct.</li></ul>Both fields offer diverse career paths, but finance professionals often work on strategic growth, while accountants focus on financial accuracy and compliance.<a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/6-things-to-find-out-about-a-company-before-your-job-interview?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=finance_vs._accounting:_which_career_path_is_right_for_you_in_malaysia?&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Related: 6 Things to Find Out About a Company Before Your Job Interview</a><hr><h2>Education &amp; Skills Required</h2><h3>Finance</h3>To enter the finance industry, you typically need a degree in finance, business administration, or economics. Additional certifications like the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Financial Risk Manager (FRM) can boost your career prospects.Key skills for finance professionals: ✅ Financial analysis and modeling ✅ Risk assessment and management ✅ Investment and market research ✅ Communication and decision-making skills ✅ Knowledge of banking and financial regulations<a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/how-to-recruit-like-a-marketer?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=finance_vs._accounting:_which_career_path_is_right_for_you_in_malaysia?&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Related: How to Recruit Like a Marketer</a><h3>Accounting</h3>Accounting careers usually require a degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. Certifications like the Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), or Chartered Accountant (CA) are highly valued.Key skills for accounting professionals: ✅ Attention to detail and accuracy ✅ Knowledge of tax laws and financial regulations ✅ Financial reporting and auditing skills ✅ Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., SAP, QuickBooks) ✅ Problem-solving and analytical skills<a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/employee-engagement-strategies-in-malaysia?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=finance_vs._accounting:_which_career_path_is_right_for_you_in_malaysia?&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Related: Employee Engagement Strategies in Malaysia</a><hr><h2>Salary Expectations in Malaysia</h2>Salaries for finance and accounting professionals vary based on experience, industry, and job level.<figure class="table"><table><thead><tr><th>Job Title</th><th>Entry-Level (RM/year)</th><th>Mid-Level (RM/year)</th><th>Senior-Level (RM/year)</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Financial Analyst</td><td>RM 40,000 – RM 60,000</td><td>RM 70,000 – RM 120,000</td><td>RM 150,000+</td></tr><tr><td>Investment Banker</td><td>RM 50,000 – RM 80,000</td><td>RM 100,000 – RM 200,000</td><td>RM 300,000+</td></tr><tr><td>Risk Manager</td><td>RM 45,000 – RM 75,000</td><td>RM 90,000 – RM 150,000</td><td>RM 200,000+</td></tr><tr><td>Auditor</td><td>RM 36,000 – RM 60,000</td><td>RM 75,000 – RM 120,000</td><td>RM 180,000+</td></tr><tr><td>Tax Accountant</td><td>RM 38,000 – RM 65,000</td><td>RM 80,000 – RM 130,000</td><td>RM 170,000+</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>Finance professionals often have higher earning potential due to performance-based bonuses and commission structures. However, accounting provides stable career growth with strong demand across industries.<a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/good-salary-malaysia-how-to-tell?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=finance_vs._accounting:_which_career_path_is_right_for_you_in_malaysia?&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Related: HR Professional Salary in Malaysia (2025 Guide)</a><hr><h2>Which Career Path Should You Choose?<img></h2>The right career depends on your interests and career goals:<ul><li>Choose finance if you enjoy investments, market trends, and risk management. It’s ideal for those who want a dynamic and fast-paced career in banking, asset management, or corporate finance.</li><li>Choose accounting if you prefer working with financial records, tax planning, and compliance. It’s a great path for those who value stability and structured career progression in auditing, tax, or corporate accounting.</li></ul>Both careers are in high demand, and professionals with expertise in financial technology (FinTech) and data analytics are especially sought after in Malaysia.<a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/how-to-answer-tell-me-something-about-you?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=finance_vs._accounting:_which_career_path_is_right_for_you_in_malaysia?&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Related: How to Answer ‘Tell Me Something About Yourself’ in an Interview</a><hr><h3>Finance suits strategic thinkers who enjoy investments and risk analysis, while accounting is ideal for detail-oriented professionals who excel in compliance and reporting. No matter your choice, upskilling and industry certifications will keep you competitive. Looking for finance or accounting jobs? Explore <a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/finance-accounting-jobs-in-malaysia?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=finance_vs._accounting:_which_career_path_is_right_for_you_in_malaysia?&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">opportunities on Hiredly</a>, join the Hiredly <a href="https://hub.hiredly.com/young-leaders-community?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=finance_vs._accounting:_which_career_path_is_right_for_you_in_malaysia?&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Young Talent Community</a>, and take the Hiredly<a href="https://hiredly.typeform.com/to/K4idZTDK?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=finance_vs._accounting:_which_career_path_is_right_for_you_in_malaysia?&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> Work Personality Test</a> to find your ideal career path!</h3>

Not sure whether to pursue a career in finance or accounting? Discover the key differences, job prospects, and salary expectations to help you choose the right path in Malaysia.