FactSet’s software platform offers real-time news, quotes and tools that help analysts screen for certain securities and test portfolio models. The software also helps analysts assess risk and do simulations. It gets the data from original sources such as Dow Jones. The company is headquartered in Connecticut. Why Does a FactSet Matter?

FQL is a proprietary data retrieval language used to access FactSet data.

How to Create a Custom List of Identifiers

1. Select Quotes tab > Watchlist subtab.
2. To select identifiers, use either or a combination of the following two methods: Use Identifier Lookup function to add individual identifiers.
3. From right-click menu, select Save Ticker List.
4. Enter filename and save in Personal folder.

To retrieve the data in the Factset tab, select “Data Downloading” under the refresh dropdown menu as shown below. You will then be asked to save a new file which includes the downloaded data. Excel will create a separate file (or data file) for each identifier which displays the requested data.

What is ‘FactSet’. FactSet Research Systems provides computer-based financial data and analysis for financial professionals, including investment managers, hedge funds and investment bankers. It consolidates data on global markets, public and private companies, and equity and fixed-income portfolios.

FactSet is broken down into three business units: one in the United States, one in Europe and one in Asia Pacific. The business unit located in the United States provides financial solutions to financial professionals as well as domestic financial institutions.

FactSet was founded in 1978 by Howard Wille and Charles Snyder and is headquartered in Connecticut, with additional offices in the United States and around the world. BREAKING DOWN ‘FactSet’. FactSet’s mission is to help the performance of investment professionals throughout the world.