Hi, I’m currently in Asset Management Risk, part of the Group Risk Control department in a bulge bracket bank. I’m early in my career, less than 2 years, and was wondering how helpful would obtaining a CFA be in terms of being able to transition to Asset Management or Investment Analyst role either within the bank or somewhere else?
You can never go wrong having “CFA” after your name. Among knowledgeable financial and investment professionsls, it’s a highly respected brand. I got my charter when I was in my early 60s, and I’ve never regretted the time and effort I invested in getting through the three exams. I passed the CPA exams when I was in my late 40s.
In my opinion having the CFA Charter has more to do with the respect rather than the actual knowledge. And I say so because when you are working in the industry already, the curriculum even for a reputed charter like CFA is lagging by miles. Considering that you are early in your career, and have not ventured into an Ivy League MBA already. There is no harm in getting the CFA Charter.