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What Does a CFA® Charterholder Do?

Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA®) charterholders apply their knowledge and skills in a wide range of positions throughout the global finance industry. Distinguished by their commitment to set a higher standard of excellence, they are sought after as investment management professionals.

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Why Choose a Career in Investment Management?

Firms and professionals in the investment management industry are stewards of capital – they help clients make investment decisions, invest their money, and provide services to enhance financial markets. The scope of these services can include trading, asset management – constructing and managing investment portfolios and funds – and regulation of these systems. Enrolling in the CFA Program and earning the CFA charter prepares and positions you for a variety of career paths in the investment management industry.

Career Paths and Jobs for CFA® Charterholders

Widely considered the apex for professional development in investment management, the CFA designation is valued by employers for roles and functions in every sector of the global finance industry, including portfolio management, analysis, private wealth, and consulting. But the CFA charter also equips professionals with the versatility to take their career paths in different directions.

  • Typical Jobs for CFA® Charterholders*

     

    • Portfolio management
    • Research
    • Consulting
    • Risk analysis and risk management
    • Investment strategy


    The full range of job functions includes relationship management and wealth management, credit analysis, chief investment officer, trading, accounting and auditing, and financial planning.

  • Typical Investment Management Sectors among CFA® Charterholders*

    • Asset management
    • Private wealth management
    • Commercial banking
    • Investment banking
    • Insurance


    The full range of sectors includes consulting, asset ownership, and brokerage. CFA charterholders are valued in emerging areas of industry growth, such as fintech.

Explore investment management topics covered in the CFA Program curriculum

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CFA® Charterholder Salary

CFA charterholders can be found in a variety of roles across the investment industry. Therefore, compensation can vary based on job function and region. Moreover, a significant amount of compensation in the investment industry takes the form of bonuses, so total compensation includes base salary, any bonuses, and long-term incentives. According to a 2019 study of CFA Institute charterholders and members worldwide, the average self-reported total compensation was nearly double the average base salary rate of US$178,600.

What Is the Typical Compensation Level for CFA® Charterholders?

Compensation varies widely in the investment industry and is influenced by many factors, including the specific industry sector, an individual professional’s seniority and area of specialization, and broad regional differences. For portfolio managers, one of the most common roles for CFA charterholders, a 2019 CFA Institute compensation study found an average self-reported total compensation of US$316,000 (US$178,600 base salary). According to the Future of Finance report Investment Firm of the Future, new business models will have a significant impact on career paths and compensation trends for investment professionals.

* As self-reported by CFA Institute members and charterholders for 2018, according to CFA Institute's 2019 compensation study.

Is Pursuing a CFA® Charter Worth It?

  • C-Suite Members Icon Value to Employers

    CFA charterholders are employed by JPMorgan Chase, Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, Royal Bank of Canada, BofA Securities, UBS Group, HSBC Holdings, Wells Fargo and Company, PricewaterhouseCoopers, BlackRock, and TD Bank Financial Group. Some employers even require it.

  • positive line graph icon Compensation Levels

    The average base salaries of CFA Institute members and charterholders in 2019 increased at a greater rate (year over year) than the rate of increase for the general market, according to the findings of the CFA Institute Compensation Study.

  • refresh icon Content that Evolves with the Industry

    Fintech and other trends in the future of finance will have significant impact on investments firms, career paths, and compensation trends. CFA Institute is poised to lead with our respected thought leadership, dedicated practice analysis, and close ties to the industry.

Compare CFA Program to other leading programs for investment managers like MBA, CPA, and CFP

Registered Candidate Career Resources

Earning the CFA charter gives you the distinction of joining a prestigious group of elite investment professionals, an achievement that can open doors for career growth. CFA Institute supports members and candidates by providing a variety of career tools and resources, access to comprehensive career guides, analysis of future finance trends and help preparing, and even perspective for career switchers exploring new fields.

Learn how to become a CFA charterholder

Register for the CFA® Program

Are you ready to earn a charter and join the ranks of elite investment professionals?

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