Mapping India’s finance workforce
The finance industry in India is evolving rapidly. Employers are seeking talent who combine strong academics, technical expertise, and soft skills to match the increasing standards. This report explores that talent landscape. It highlights the most in-demand skills, hiring trends, qualifications, and upskilling practices shaping today’s roles and tomorrow’s opportunities. Commissioned by CFA Institute and led by Kantar, the world’s leading marketing data and analytics company, this study draws on insights from more than 100 firms across the finance and investment industry.
Key findings
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MBA in Finance and CFA® charter are the top qualifications, valued by employers. 54% of employers seek candidates with MBA + CFA® charter.
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CFA® Program is highly valued for entry- and mid-level investment roles, while senior positions prioritize relevant industry experience.
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Employers prefer a mix of technical skills (68% market and product knowledge, 51% financial
modelling) and soft skills (49%, such as communication, stakeholder management).
India is emerging as a global hub for finance talent, driven by technical expertise, digital fluency, and ethical leadership. The CFA Program remains a strong foundation for professionals seeking to thrive in this dynamic finance and investment landscape.