CFA® DESIGNATION
The CFA Program, administered by CFA Institute, is a graduate level, global standard for investment industry knowledge and ethical behavior. Introduced in 1963, CFA Institute determines the curriculum, administers the exam, and awards the charter. Known as the “gold standard” among financial industry professionals, the CFA charter is recognized as a significant benchmark within the financial community.
The CFA Program focuses specifically on investment knowledge. Earning the CFA charter demonstrates mastery of:
- Ethical and Professional Standards
- Portfolio Management and Wealth Planning
- Equity Investments
- Financial Reporting and Analysis
- Fixed-Income Investments
- Derivatives
- Alternative Investments
- Quantitative Methods
- Corporate Finance
- Economics
In the late 1940s, Benjamin Graham, often called the “dean of investment analysis,” first proposed a “Qualified Securities Analyst” designation for members of the growing investment profession. After much work from Graham and other dedicated professionals, the first CFA exam was administered in 1963 to 284 candidates, most of them senior-level practitioners.
The CFA Program consists of a series of three examinations (Levels I, II, and III) that must be taken in succession. The certification is awarded only to those who pass three levels of exams, in addition to having four years of qualifying investment work experience. Charterholders must pledge to adhere to the CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct.
WHY CHOOSE A CHARTERHOLDER? CFA Institute promotes a rigorous, comprehensive education so that investment professionals master skills most needed for investment analysis, portfolio management, along with the Global Investment Performance Standards (GIPS®). The integrity of investment advisers is of the utmost importance. Their skills and advice directly impact the financial well-being of their clients. This is why every CFA Charterholder and CFA Institute member is required to sign an annual statement declaring adherence to the CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct.
Just as employers are increasingly seeking those who have earned the CFA credential as a reliable way to differentiate the most qualified job applicants and the most committed employees, investors are looking to be certain their managers are CFA Charterholders. Please see the informative Why Employers Value the CFA Designation on the CFA Institute website.
To learn more about the CFA Institute or the CFA Designation please see CFA Program Factsheet and the CFA Institute’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct.
“CFA Institute does not endorse, promote or warrant the accuracy or quality of Tieton Capital Management. CFA® and Chartered Financial Analyst® are registered trademarks owned by CFA Institute.”
CODE OF ETHICS Tieton Capital Management has adopted the CFA® Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct. The CFA Institute Code and Standards can be found on the web link below or you may contact Tieton Capital for our Code and Standards.
To learn more about the CFA Code of Ethics, please see the CFA Institute’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct.
“CFA Institute does not endorse, promote or warrant the accuracy or quality of Tieton Capital Management. CFA® and Chartered Financial Analyst® are registered trademarks owned by CFA Institute.”