When you work with an investment advisor, he or she has access to the most personal details of your finances, so the advisor's credentials should matter to you. There are a number of reputable and helpful credentials that financial professionals may hold, but none as rigorously focused on investment knowledge as the Chartered Financial Analyst designation.

Knowledge and Experience

To become a CFA, a candidate must pass a series of three rigorous, 6-hour examinations over at least three years. Importantly, the program requires not only mastery of a multi-disciplinary, globally relevant body of financial knowledge, but also demonstration of the ability to apply this knowledge to investment decisions, with an emphasis on analysis and portfolio management. And, to earn the right to use the CFA designation, candidates must have at least three years of professional experience in the investment decision-making process.

Ethics

The integrity of investment advisors is of the utmost importance. That is why each CFA examination includes a thorough section testing knowledge and application of ethical and professional standards--and why every CFA is required to sign an annual statement declaring their adherence to the CFA Institute's Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct.