The CFA Institute is rolling out its Certificate in ESG Investing across global financial centres as demand continues to increase for sustainable investments and qualifications.
A CFA Institute report released in December showed 69% of retail investors and 76% of institutional investors have an interest in ESG investing.
In addition, studies show that ESG assets are on a pace to hit $53 trillion by 2025 while regulators including the UK Financial Conduct Authority, European Securities and Markets Association, and US Securities and Exchange Commission are demonstrating an intense focus on ESG oversight.
“We are seeing a real acceleration of interest in ESG investing – a major development that will shape the future of finance – while increased demand from clients and investment management firms has fuelled the need for education,” said Margaret Franklin, CFA, president and CEO of CFA Institute.
She added that the certificate is the first of its kind to be made available globally, and will equip practitioners with foundational knowledge and competencies, enabling them to better serve the needs of their clients and contribute to building trust within the industry
The aim is to strengthen market integrity by delivering the benchmark knowledge and skills for investment professionals.
It is also suitable for anyone looking to improve their understanding of ESG issues in functions such as sales and distribution, wealth management, product development, financial advice, consulting and risk.
The Certificate in ESG Investing comprises a self-study course of approximately 130 hours and then passing a two-hour and 20-minute computer-based exams consisting of 100 questions. The exam can be taken at a proctored testing centre or online where available.
Candidates have one year to sit the exam after registration, and there are no formal entry requirements. On successful completion of the exam, candidates will be awarded a certificate.
The Certificate was created by the CFA Society of the UK two years ago in consultation with leading firms and is recognised by the UN Principle of Responsible Investment.
The certificate is currently available in the UK, US, Canada, Brazil, Hong Kong, France, Netherlands, Switzerland, Finland, Denmark, Luxembourg, Spain, Ireland, Norway, Sweden and Germany.
©Markets Media Europe 2021
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