ING Financial Analyst interview questions & guide 2026

The following questions are representative of the patterns identified in recent interview cycles. While the specific focus may shift depending on whether you are interviewing with the research team, traders, or the broader finance department, these categories capture the core competencies ING looks for in a Financial Analyst.

Behavioral and Motivational

These questions test your alignment with ING culture, your professional trajectory, and your ability to handle workplace scenarios.

• Walk me through your CV and your interest in finance.
• Why ING? Why are you interested in this specific team?

Preparation should focus on bridging the gap between academic theory and practical application. You will be evaluated not just on your ability to perform calculations, but on your ability to justify your assumptions and communicate your logic clearly.

Role-related knowledge – This covers your grasp of accounting, valuation, and market analysis. You should be prepared to explain your methodology for any model you build, demonstrating an in-depth understanding of the underlying financial concepts.

Problem-solving ability – ING interviewers look for your ability to break down complex, multi-layered problems into manageable parts. Focus on creating a structured approach before diving into the numbers.

Leadership and Communication – You will often interact with senior stakeholders, so clarity and confidence are essential. Demonstrate that you can translate technical data into a compelling narrative that supports business objectives.

Culture fit – ING prioritizes professional, collaborative individuals who can work effectively in teams. Be prepared to show that you are a resilient, proactive learner who thrives in an international environment.

The interview journey at ING is generally professional and structured, though the intensity can vary by location and seniority. Most candidates experience a mix of behavioral screening, technical interviews, and a practical case study. You should expect a process that moves relatively quickly, typically spanning a few weeks, with a focus on both your technical baseline and your ability to function within the team.

The process often begins with a recruiter screen or an initial call to assess your motivation. Subsequent rounds usually involve members of the team—often including Analysts, VPs, or Directors—who will probe your technical knowledge. A key differentiator is the case study, which may be a take-home assignment or a live, time-pressured exercise requiring you to demonstrate your modeling and presentation skills.

The timeline above highlights the multi-stage nature of the assessment. You should use this to pace your preparation, ensuring you have mastered the technical fundamentals before the later-stage case studies and panel interviews. Note that the process is designed to test your endurance and your ability to perform consistently under pressure.

Financial Modeling and Valuation

This is the bedrock of the Financial Analyst role. You must demonstrate proficiency in building models from scratch and understanding the inputs that drive valuation.

Be ready to go over:

• DCF mechanics – Understanding WACC, terminal value, and free cash flow projections.
• Accounting linkages – How the Income Statement, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow Statement interact.

As a Financial Analyst, your daily routine involves gathering, cleaning, and analyzing financial data to support institutional decision-making. You will spend significant time in Excel, developing and maintaining valuation models that are used to justify investment or credit decisions. These models are not static; they require constant updates based on the latest market data and internal feedback.

Collaboration is central to your success. You will likely work closely with senior bankers and product specialists to prepare pitch decks and investment memos for clients. This involves synthesizing your analytical findings into clear, persuasive PowerPoint presentations. You are the "engine room" of the deal team, ensuring that all quantitative arguments are robust and that the team has the necessary data to advise clients effectively.

A competitive candidate for ING typically possesses a strong academic background in finance, economics, or a related quantitative field. You are expected to have a high level of proficiency in Excel and a solid grasp of financial accounting principles.

• Must-have skills: Advanced financial modeling (DCF, Comps), mastery of the three financial statements, strong analytical writing, and excellent English communication.
• Nice-to-have skills: Proficiency in additional languages (especially Dutch, depending on the office), experience with Bloomberg or similar financial terminals, and prior internship experience in investment banking or corporate finance.
• Soft skills: Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, high attention to detail, and the ability to maintain composure under tight deadlines.

Q: How long should I spend preparing for the technical rounds? A: Dedicate at least 2–4 weeks to reviewing valuation concepts and practicing modeling. The technical rigor at ING is significant, and you should ensure your knowledge is intuitive rather than just memorized.

Q: What is the most important thing to show in the case study? A: Accuracy is important, but your ability to structure your work and explain your assumptions is paramount. Always double-check your logic and be prepared to defend your choices to the panel.

Q: Is the culture at ING very formal? A: ING is known for being professional yet collaborative and welcoming. While the work is serious, the team environments are generally supportive, and you will find that interviewers are often willing to engage in constructive, two-way dialogue.

Q: What is the typical timeframe from the first interview to an offer? A: Processes can move quickly, sometimes within 3–6 weeks. Stay proactive and maintain clear communication with your HR contact throughout the process.

• Know your story: Be prepared to articulate a clear narrative regarding why you want to be a Financial Analyst and why ING is your chosen firm.
• Stay current: Read financial news daily. Being able to discuss a recent market event or a specific industry trend shows that you are engaged and proactive.
• Structure your answers: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions to keep your responses concise and impactful.
• Be inquisitive: Ask thoughtful questions at the end of your interviews. Ask about the team’s current projects, the culture, or the biggest challenges they face in the current market.

The Financial Analyst role at ING offers a unique opportunity to contribute to high-impact financial projects within a prestigious global banking environment. By mastering the technical fundamentals of valuation and accounting, and pairing that with a clear, structured approach to problem-solving, you position yourself as a strong candidate for this demanding role.

Remember that ING interviewers are looking for a balance of analytical excellence and the cultural maturity to work in a fast-paced, international team. Use the resources available to you to practice your delivery and refine your financial expertise. With focused preparation and a clear understanding of the expectations outlined in this guide, you can approach your interviews with confidence and clarity. Explore further insights on Dataford to refine your preparation and take the next step in your career journey.

The compensation data provided reflects market averages for the Financial Analyst position. Use this to set realistic expectations, but remember that total compensation at ING may include performance-based components and benefits that vary by location and seniority level.