Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
1 Ethical and Professional Standards
1-1 Code of Ethics
1-2 Standards of Professional Conduct
1-3 Guidance for Standards I-VII
1-4 Introduction to the Global Investment Performance Standards (GIPS)
1-5 Application of the Code and Standards
2 Quantitative Methods
2-1 Time Value of Money
2-2 Discounted Cash Flow Applications
2-3 Statistical Concepts and Market Returns
2-4 Probability Concepts
2-5 Common Probability Distributions
2-6 Sampling and Estimation
2-7 Hypothesis Testing
2-8 Technical Analysis
3 Economics
3-1 Topics in Demand and Supply Analysis
3-2 The Firm and Market Structures
3-3 Aggregate Output, Prices, and Economic Growth
3-4 Understanding Business Cycles
3-5 Monetary and Fiscal Policy
3-6 International Trade and Capital Flows
3-7 Currency Exchange Rates
4 Financial Statement Analysis
4-1 Financial Reporting Mechanism
4-2 Income Statements, Balance Sheets, and Cash Flow Statements
4-3 Financial Reporting Standards
4-4 Analysis of Financial Statements
4-5 Inventories
4-6 Long-Lived Assets
4-7 Income Taxes
4-8 Non-Current (Long-term) Liabilities
4-9 Financial Reporting Quality
4-10 Financial Analysis Techniques
4-11 Evaluating Financial Reporting Quality
5 Corporate Finance
5-1 Capital Budgeting
5-2 Cost of Capital
5-3 Measures of Leverage
5-4 Dividends and Share Repurchases
5-5 Corporate Governance and ESG Considerations
6 Equity Investments
6-1 Market Organization and Structure
6-2 Security Market Indices
6-3 Overview of Equity Securities
6-4 Industry and Company Analysis
6-5 Equity Valuation: Concepts and Basic Tools
6-6 Equity Valuation: Applications and Processes
7 Fixed Income
7-1 Fixed-Income Securities: Defining Elements
7-2 Fixed-Income Markets: Issuance, Trading, and Funding
7-3 Introduction to the Valuation of Fixed-Income Securities
7-4 Understanding Yield Spreads
7-5 Fundamentals of Credit Analysis
8 Derivatives
8-1 Derivative Markets and Instruments
8-2 Pricing and Valuation of Forward Commitments
8-3 Valuation of Contingent Claims
9 Alternative Investments
9-1 Alternative Investments Overview
9-2 Risk Management Applications of Alternative Investments
9-3 Private Equity Investments
9-4 Real Estate Investments
9-5 Commodities
9-6 Infrastructure Investments
9-7 Hedge Funds
10 Portfolio Management and Wealth Planning
10-1 Portfolio Management: An Overview
10-2 Investment Policy Statement (IPS)
10-3 Asset Allocation
10-4 Basics of Portfolio Planning and Construction
10-5 Risk Management in the Portfolio Context
10-6 Monitoring and Rebalancing
10-7 Global Investment Performance Standards (GIPS)
10-8 Introduction to the Wealth Management Process
1.5 Application of the Code and Standards

1.5 Application of the Code and Standards - 1.5 Application of the Code and Standards

Key Concepts

Integrity in Practice

Integrity in practice means consistently applying ethical principles in all professional activities. This includes avoiding conflicts of interest, ensuring transparency, and acting in the best interest of clients.

Example: A CFA should disclose any potential conflicts of interest, such as personal investments that could influence their advice, to maintain transparency and trust with clients.

Competence in Action

Competence in action involves applying the knowledge and skills acquired through continuous learning and professional development. CFAs must ensure they are providing services within their area of expertise.

Example: A CFA specializing in equity analysis should not provide advice on complex derivatives unless they have the necessary expertise, ensuring they deliver accurate and reliable information.

Respect in Interaction

Respect in interaction requires treating all individuals with fairness and dignity. This includes fostering a respectful work environment and ensuring equal treatment for all clients and colleagues.

Example: A CFA should ensure that all team members, regardless of their role, are treated with equal respect and consideration, promoting a collaborative and inclusive work culture.

Diligence in Execution

Diligence in execution means being thorough and attentive in carrying out professional duties. This includes meticulous research, careful analysis, and proactive risk management.

Example: A CFA should thoroughly research a company before recommending it to a client, ensuring that all potential risks are identified and considered, and that the recommendation is well-founded.

Confidentiality in Communication

Confidentiality in communication involves protecting the privacy and sensitive information of clients and employers. CFAs must not disclose confidential information without proper authorization.

Example: A CFA should not discuss a client's portfolio details with colleagues unless it is necessary for providing the service, and even then, only with the client's consent, ensuring the client's privacy is maintained.