CFA vs. MS FINANCE

[FrankArabia]

yes, for Toronto only. But that is where most of the finance jobs are.

 

[goes to eleven]

FrankArabia wrote:
CFA is a waste of time to those who try and fail it.

It depends on the reason for beginning the program. If it is only for the letters behind your name, then certainly not finishing would be a waste of time. But if you are doing it to become a better analyst / portfolio manager, then spending time with in the books is not a waste of time regardless of finishing it.
That said, my wife thought I was going to have a nervous breakdown after failing L3 the second time.

 

[puneet_singal20]

I was wishing to capitalise on CFA’s global recognition to find myself a decent job in the domain of finance in Canada. But I think it would not be easy as such.

 

[former trader]

Back offices in Canada are filled with people that passed all 3 levels of the CFA.

 

[FrankArabia]

the CFA won’t help you here especially with your puneet accent

 

[puneet_singal20]

Trust me, I am working on my accent.
It means CFA can mean a job promotion or knowledge gained but less chances of getting a job only on basis of clearing CFA Level 2 Exam. I feel there should be a campus placement program conducted by different CFA Societies around the globe. Major problem experienced by a CFA Candidate is lack of knowledge of good opportunities for which he/she has the necessary skill. Getting placed off-campus is very difficult i.e. applying for jobs on internet or mailing your CV. One needs networking which could be provided by local CFA Society. No offense to anyone as this is my personal point of view.
I think the same would be the case if I move to Canada. I feel that employers will give due regard to CFA charterholder but I need someone to get me to employers.
Need suggestions. Please

 

[MustardAndFries]

Hi Puneet,
I can see where you are coming from, but many (if not most) CFA Societies already do networking/luncheon/panel discussion events for that exact purpose.
And yes, people will (in general) prefer to hire a CFA Charterholder over a non-Charterholder, all else equal. What, in my opinion, really matters for an employer is (in order of importance):
1. Do they like you? Are you a good fit for the firm’s culture? Are you easy to get along with?
2. Prior work experience in a related field, preferably in the exact field you are looking to get a job in.
3. Do you have a warm contact within the firm? In other words, is there someone willing to vouch for your work or personality?
4. Educational background.

 

[former trader]

^ I agree with the above, but I would put 2. before 1.