CFA for Credit Investing
Currently a CIB analyst in a corporate and leveraged credit group. Focus on underwriting, spreads, modeling, etc etc (Think Corporate Banking underwriting and PM work).
I enjoy credit and see a future in this path, direct lending / private credit, or alt credit. I’m at a balance sheet bank, regionally solid shop. I want to be in the South, specifically Charlotte.
Would pursuing a CFA make sense to elevate career opportunities? I’m an AN1, non target / semi target school for undergrad. Any advice would help!
Bump
Bump
Bump
Bump
Not really needed tbh. CLO shops sometimes like it but private credit doesn’t seem to put too much weight on it. Underwriting sponsor backed names and leveraged credits will be what you need + a lot of preparation for PC interviews. Unfortunately, you will probably have to move for private credit. All of the jobs are in NYC and Chicago, with some in TX and FL. CLT has a few but minimal.
Thanks for the response. Seems to echo other advice I’ve received of it’s good to have, but definitely not a guaranteed job offer scenario. I’m also interested in credit research and Alternative Credit / AM so I see those routes being more applicable.
Yeah I mean look, you’re better off getting the job first through practicing modeling, practicing case studies etc vs getting the CFA which is seriously a long endeavor, and not easy. Given you have the credit experience, I would build on that. Don’t feel like you need the credentials if you already have relevant experience. If you think you can do both, and you want to do it, you certainly should. It’s just not a requirement (unless the firm only hires CFAs). CFA was a great learning experience and a great personal sense of accomplishment, outside of that, it’s gotten me some compliments but not much more than that (aka you have to put the work in still to get where you want to be).
Would you say in your experience it’s worth it? If I’m an AN1 like OP, and have broad interest in multiple avenues? I see a lot of people at PGIM Private Capital have it etc etc. I’m in a similar spot as OP, and have the time capacity right now to begin level 1 and test in November
Can second that. I work in Credit and the CFA provides little to no value in our day-to-day. Time better spent doing anything else incl. networking
Quod perferendis est sed quia nostrum nihil aliquam. Labore accusamus et quo laborum.
Pariatur sunt sed debitis esse eius voluptas est enim. Quo libero minus qui fugit. Aperiam vero distinctio a qui quia ratione. Blanditiis minima nihil nihil tempore aut autem. Ratione odit laudantium est. Vel et inventore sint voluptatem est perferendis tempora.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...