Fast Facts History First proposed in 1942 by Benjamin Graham, 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 The Economist ranked the CFA Program as the gold standard among investment analysis designations Regulators around the world recognize the value of the charter Academics Self-study curriculum: Developed by a broad-based global practice analysis conducted every five years Three levels of exams: Successful candidates report spending an average of 300 hours preparing for each exam, depending on individual circumstances. Generalist approach: Emphasizes principles that are relevant in every market Ongoing: CFA Institute partners with leading business schools to offer our members discounted rates on executive education courses developed exclusively for experienced investment professionals. Member Network Global network of over 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