DEMAND FOR CHARTERED financial analysts (CFA) charter-holders in Barbados is set to grow as local companies recognise the value these professionals can add to their businesses.
That’s the assessment of Charles King, president of the CFA Society in Barbados. It is one of 144 such societies belonging to the CFA Institute, a global organisation of investment professionals with 127 000 members in 150 countries.
“CFA charter-holders are already in demand by our financial services industry and our international banks and wealth management companies, and I believe that our progressive local companies will soon follow suit,” King said.
“It will not be long before they recognise what CFA charter-holders can bring to the table, particularly their research and analytical skills and deeply ingrained commitment to ethics. The CFA designation is going to become highly desirable in our big conglomerates, banks, and government departments too.”
King made his comments during a recent reception for approximately 40 candidates currently enrolled in the institute’s “rigorous” three-stage programme that leads to the CFA charter-holder credential.
The Barbados society already has 50 members, most of whom hold the CFA designation.
The society president said the CFA credential has become “the most respected and recognised investment designation in the world”.
In many countries it is now a fundamental requirement for anyone wanting to be a professional portfolio manager.
However, while CFA charter-holders are typically found in insurance companies, wealth management companies and mutual and pension funds, companies in many other industries are seeking them out, he said.
“Companies need investment professionals to help them run their treasury operations, and also to provide the thorough research and analysis that must be done when you are a considering an acquisition or merger, or a divestment. They can take the business apart and determine what competitive advantages it might have,” King explained. (PR)