An investment banker is a financial professional who specializes in providing advisory services on a variety of corporate finance and investment activities, such as mergers and acquisitions, initial public offerings (IPOs), debt and equity capital raises, and strategic business and financial planning. They are typically employed by banks and other financial institutions, although some are independent consultants. Investment bankers help companies and investors identify potential opportunities to raise capital and invest in assets, while also managing the transaction process for the involved parties.