What Does a CFA® Charterholder Do? (2024)

FAQs

What Does a CFA® Charterholder Do? ›

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 industry.

Earning a CFA is often a requirement for becoming a chief investment officer at an investment firm or public company; engaging in credit analysis, corporate accounting and auditing; or doing financial planning for high net-worth individuals.

The primary difference between the CPA and CFA is that the CPA is an accounting credential, while the CFA is for financial analysis. While they are related in many ways, accounting and finance are ultimately separate fields.

Although the CFA designation is not required, the study and work requirements represent a high level of expertise. Holding the qualification indicates a high level of specialization to employers and potential clients.

The CFA charter is relevant in a variety of careers including investment management, risk management, private wealth, banking, and consulting, just to name a few. Furthermore, the prospects for career advancement and increases in total compensation may be expected for candidates who ultimately earn the CFA marks.

WHICH IS MORE DIFFICULT – CFA OR CPA? As clearly seen in the passing rates CFA is more difficult in comparison to CPA. On an average about 50% of the registered candidates clear CPA exam whereas about 7% of the candidates clear all the 3 levels of CFA.

Yes. CFAs typically earn a substantial amount of money. Per the CFA Institute, the median annual salary for a chief investment officer is $177,000 with a base salary of $126,000. Keep in mind that the average pay can differ greatly due to a variety of factors, such as location, experience, and finance speciality.

CFA Salary in USA depends on the work experience and job roles. The average salary of a Chartered Financial Analyst is USD 108,855 per year (INR 90.63 Lakhs Approx). This is just base pay and does not include other benefits of total compensation.

Career aspirations: While there is certainly overlap in how business school graduates and charterholders apply their expertise, MBA programs are generally ideal for professionals who want to pursue management positions in any industry. A CFA designation suits professionals dedicated to working in the finance industry.

– The CFA Institute says a CFA charter holder can earn between $126,000 and $177,000. – Comparably.com data from Feb. 2023 shows the average CFP salary in the U.S. is $121,099. The total range is between $39,300 and $187,200.

What is the average age of CFA charterholders? ›

The average age of CFA charterholders is 41.18, and the mean time in industry is 16.72 years. The new charterholders' primary concern right now will be what impact their new status will have on their career.

While investment banking, for example, sees average ages between 22 and 50*, depending on position, in roles more typical of CFA charterholders — portfolio managers, financial advisors, and C-suite — the average age tends to be higher. In fact, among CFA Institute members, the average age is 42.5.

If you're aiming to work in roles such as financial analysts, portfolio managers, or investment bankers, the CFA designation can be a valuable asset. However, if you want to pursue careers in other areas of finance, an alternative certification or qualification may be more relevant.

CFA Exam Fees and Additional Expenses. Registration costs vary depending on when a candidate decides to register for the exam. The total cost of all three CFA exams ranges from approximately $3,220 to $8,050, assuming three consecutive passes with no travel and accommodation costs.

There are three tests to take before you become a charter member. The Level II test is the second, so when you complete it, you only have one more to go. Passing the Level II exam also demonstrates your dedication to your career and learning and can result in increased opportunities in your professional life.

The Bottom Line

Overall, the CFA exams are very difficult, but candidates can increase their chances of passing by studying for over 300 hours, utilizing alternative prep materials, answering as many practice questions as possible, and creating a structured study plan.

Passing the CFA Level I exam can help you get an entry-level finance job, such as intern, accountant, or investment analyst. It won't guarantee a job or a raise, but it shows your commitment and knowledge of basic financial concepts.

Is the CFA Equivalent to a Master's Degree? Since both the CFA Program and an MSFA require an undergraduate degree in most cases and require about the same total amount of study, the CFA is generally considered to be equivalent to a master's degree.

When it comes to CFA vs. CFP certificants, a CFA helps high net-worth clients and corporations grow their wealth, while a CFP helps individual clients prepare for their future and meet their financial goals.