Big4 RX -> London IB -> Buyside (CPA or CFA)

Hey everyone,

Currently an Associate at a Big 4 RX group in HK. Mapping out a non-traditional path and could use some brutal honesty on my credentials.

The Roadmap:
1. Short-term (1-2 years): Stay in HK Big 4, build technicals, and pivot to IB

2. Mid-term (3-8 years): Relocate to London for RX IB or buyside / Stay in HK

3. Long-term: Move back to home market (developing SE Asian country) to settle down in IB or buyside role

The Dilemma: HKICPA v. CFA
(Since the firm is paying for my qualification, I might as well do it), I’m trying to decide which designation carries the most weight across these three very different jurisdictions:

- CPA: Essential for promotion down the road in HK. I understand that there’s a reciprocal agreement with the ICAEW (ACA) in the UK. For those in London, does having an ACA/CPA “passport” make the move easier for RX roles or is it just a check the box thing?

- CFA: Want to avoid being pigeonholed as a “liquidator/accountant” and eventually keeping my options open to buyside roles in the future. Not sure if this option is any helpful for relocating to the UK.

The feasibility question:
My man question is moving from HK to London actually realistic at the Senior Associate/Manager level (3-5yoe) since the flow is usually the other way round. Does my experience hold enough technical weight to compete with London-trained ACAs, or am I fighting an uphill battle

My questions:
1. For those in London RX IB / Credit: How much do you value ACA/CPA vs the CFA? Does the reciprocal HKICPA -> ICAEW path actually command respect in the London recruiting market?

2. Any advice on the timing of the move? Is it better to jump to IB in HK first, or move to a London Big 4 then pivot to London IB?

Appreciate any insights on my path