Arbus Capital Management principal, Arden Rodgers, CFA, successfully completed all three levels of the CFA examination and earned the right to use the Chartered Financial Analyst designation.

What else should you consider? Ask questions about their experience and where they gained their expertise, the associations they belong to, as well as certification. Certified Financial Planner, Certified Investment Management Analyst, and Chartered Financial Analyst all have strong requirements, but the CFA is the strongest for investors.

- Bloomberg Businessweek

Global Recognition
The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) charter is a globally respected, graduate-level investment credential established in 1962 and awarded by CFA Institute — the largest global association of investment professionals.

“No credential is as widely regarded in the global financial industry for its rigorous focus on current investment knowledge, analytical skill, and ethical standards as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation.

“A CFA charterholder is:

• Credible: Adherence to a code of ethics that puts the client's interest first and mastery of a comprehensive body of investment knowledge
• Committed: Demonstrated professional experience and perseverance to undergo 18 hours of examination
• Current: Exams updated with the latest and most relevant knowledge and access to world-class lifelong learning resources
• Connected: Membership in a network of more than 100,000 investment professionals in over 135 countries”

- CFA Institute web site

Comprehensive and Current Knowledge
The CFA Program curriculum provides a comprehensive framework of knowledge for investment decision making and is firmly grounded in the knowledge and skills used every day in the investment profession. The three levels of the CFA Program test a proficiency with a wide range of fundamental and advanced investment topics, including ethical and professional standards, fixed-income and equity analysis, alternative and derivative investments, economics, financial reporting standards, portfolio management, and wealth planning.