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Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Code (USA and Canada)

Join CFA Institute in providing guidance and practical ways for the investment industry to embrace and realize diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). 

diversity equity inclusion

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are crucial elements in the future of the investment industry and the success of investment firms. CFA Institute recognizes that a diversity of perspectives will lead to better investor outcomes; an inclusive investment industry will better serve our diverse society. Further, we recognize that an organization, with an inclusive culture, awareness and education, and effective working relationships, is a better place to work. To help ensure these critical initiatives, CFA Institute has developed a voluntary code to guide DEI, beginning in the United States and Canada.

Objectives of the Code

  • industry icon Meet the industry where it is

    Define the current state.

  • clipboard icon Define key principles for firms to implement

    Drive improvement from a realistic foundation.

  • pie chart icon Provide a metrics-based reporting framework

    Produce meaningful results.

The DEI Code (USA and Canada) and Implementation Guidance

Become a Signatory to the DEI Code (USA and Canada)

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    Signatory Notification Form

    Complete this form if your organization is becoming a signatory to the DEI Code (USA and Canada).    

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    DEI Code Signatory Organizations

    See the organizations that currently claim commitment to the principles and provisions of the DEI Code (USA and Canada).

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    DEI Code Overview (PDF)

    Read the document.

  • question mark icon
    FAQs (PDF)

    Answers to your frequently asked questions

  • communication icon
    Help Desk

    Questions about adoption of the Code? Email us.

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    Research and Analysis

    Read our research papers on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the investment industry.

Development of the DEI Code

In March 2020, the CFA Institute Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Steering Committee tasked a DEI Code Working Group with developing a set of principles to drive greater DEI within the investment industry.

The DEI Code Working Group consists of members of CFA Institute Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Steering Committee, DEI practitioners, and investment professionals.

An exposure draft was published in July 2021. Feedback was sought on the Code’s Principles, requirements, and recommendations from industry participants, regulators, and other stakeholders during the consultation period. We received 100 responses.

 

Reference Materials

The following documents will be available until 23 February 2023.

Watch the Webinar

Introducing the Diversity Equity and Inclusion Code USA and Canada Introducing the DEI Code (USA and Canada)

On 24 February 2022, CFA Institute issued the first voluntary Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Code to foster a commitment that will lead to greater inclusion of wider viewpoints from diverse talent, which should result in better investment outcomes and help create better working environments.

Topics include: 

  • Purpose and Scope 
  • Benefits 
  • Overview of the DEI Code’s six key principles  
  • Overview of requirements and implementation guidance 
  • Adoption steps

View the slides and watch the recording of this webinar.

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