Investment managers are professionals who manage investment portfolios on behalf of clients, which can include individuals, institutions, or corporations. Their primary goal is to grow the clients' assets over time while balancing risk and return. They analyze market trends, economic data, and individual securities to make informed decisions about buying, holding, or selling investments. These managers often work for investment firms, hedge funds, or mutual funds and may specialize in specific asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, or real estate. They typically charge fees based on the assets they manage or the performance of the investments, aligning their interests with those of their clients.