Which of the following is NOT a role of an investment banker?

Investment bankers play a crucial role in the financial system, primarily focused on assisting companies in raising capital and facilitating financial transactions. They do this through several key activities.

One of their main roles is raising capital for companies, which involves helping clients obtain funds through the issuance of stocks or bonds. Underwriting is another significant function, where investment bankers assume the risk of buying securities from the issuer and selling them to the public or institutional investors. They are also involved in providing advisory services, offering guidance on mergers and acquisitions, and helping firms navigate complex financial landscapes.

Trading stocks on the exchange, however, is not typically considered a primary function of investment bankers. This activity is usually the domain of traders and sales personnel who operate within investment firms and financial institutions, focusing on executing buy and sell orders for clients or the firms themselves. Therefore, this option stands out as the one that does not align with the traditional responsibilities associated with investment banking, clearly distinguishing it from the other functions listed.