Fast Facts

 

History: Into Our Sixth Decade

• First proposed by Benjamin Graham in 1942 as a member of the New York Society of Securities Analysts (NYSSA, founded 1937)
• Founding members of CFA Institute include the world’s oldest corporate financial manager societies, the Investment Analysts Society of Chicago (founded 1925) and  NYSSA

 

Recognition: Worldwide

• The Economist ranked the CFA Program as the gold standard among investment analysis designations
• Employers around the world recognize the value of the charter

 

Academics: Rigorous

• Self-study curriculum: Developed by a broad-based global practice analysis conducted every five years
• Three levels of exam: Each level demands a minimum of 250 hours of study, with substantially more, depending on individual circumstances
• Generalist approach: Emphasizes principles that are relevant in every market

 

Member Network: Invaluable

• Global network of nearly 100,000 members
• Highly active professional membership organization
• Members play leading roles in:
  • Investment companies
  • Mutual funds
  • Broker-dealer/investment banks
  • Banks
  • Consulting firms
  • Insurance companies
  • Pensions and foundations
  • Research and academic institutions