The CFA Charter as the Gold Standard

 

The global financial press comments on the value of the CFA charter

 

“A Masters will teach the principles (of finance), whereas the CFA refreshes those, and adds the specific rules related to products in various financial centres. Many recruits with a Masters will then sit CFA at the behest of their employer…CFA is a challenging qualification, requiring candidates not only to master theory, but detailed knowledge of regulations in particular jurisdictions. It typically takes three years to complete, involving a minimum of 250 hours (of study) a year.”

The Financial Times

22 June 2009

 

"The requirements to be an investment counsel or portfolio manager vary among the provinces, but they're in the process of being standardized. Often, though, an investment counsellor or portfolio manager will have earned all or part of the highly respected Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation. Gerry Ramos, a CFA holder and instructor for aspiring CFAs, said there are between 10,000 and 20,000 people with this designation in Canada. 'It's gathered a lot of traction because it's basically the gold standard for analytical work and portfolio management in the industry.'"

The Globe and Mail (Toronto)

30 May 2009

 

"What else should you consider? Ask questions about their experience and where they gained their expertise, the associations they belong to, as well as certification. Certified Financial Planner, Certified Investment Management Analyst, and Chartered Financial Analyst all have strong requirements, but the CFA is the strongest for investors."
Business Week
18 December 2008

 

“The big attraction, in an age of globalisation where executives are increasingly likely to change countries when they change jobs, is that the CFA qualification becomes a second passport, an international gold standard.”

The Financial Times

22 May 2006