Why Use a CFA® Professional?
The Chartered Financial Analyst® designation, CFA, is regarded as one of the most sought after and respected certifications for investment professionals, especially in the area of investment management. According to The Economist, the CFA designation is the gold standard for professionals within the global investment community.
The CFA designation is awarded to investment professionals who exemplify a strong understanding of advanced investment analysis and real-world portfolio management skills, and have successfully completed the requirements set by the globally recognized CFA Institute. To be eligible for the CFA designation, candidates must attain the following:
1. A minimum of four years of professional investment experience.
2. Pass three rigorous six hour exams over a minimum of two and one half years.
3. Commit to abide by, and annually reaffirm, their adherence to the CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct.
The CFA program consists of three levels of study on topics including ethics, fixed income and equity analysis, alternative and derivative investments, economics, financial reporting, corporate finance, portfolio management, and wealth planning. This course of study was formed in 1962 and is constantly updated to ensure that the curriculum meets the dynamic nature and complexity of the global investment profession. Pass rates vary from year to year, but have averaged around 45%.
The CFA Institute is a non-profit professional organization of more than 167,000 charter holders working in over 160 markets worldwide. In addition to administering the CFA Program, the CFA Institute is also recognized around the world for its investment performance standards, code of ethics and standards of professional conduct. More information can be found at www.cfainstitute.org.
Maureen O’Hern Hahn was awarded CFA charter number 6951 in 1982. She joins other investment professionals who strive to better their skills and knowledge on behalf of their clients and who commit to adhere to a high standard of ethical conduct.