Hey WSO, need cert advice. I’m 30, a RAD developer in equity derivatives tech at a second-tier BB (2 years), with a physics degree. Just passed CFA L1 (failed once, nailed it this time).
Job market’s grim—perm roles scarce, layoffs looming—so I’m upskilling to stay sharp. I maintain/build tools (lifecycle, automation, risk & analytics reporting) and want to blend business and tech to stand out—tons of coders, few get both. Risk’s one area I could explore (ties to my work); quant’s a long-term goal (retrying a master’s later, entry’s tough). Aims: 1) dodge cuts and shine, 2) prep for bigger moves (risk tech, quant-ish, buy-side tech).
CFA L1 felt broad and memorization-heavy—I expect L2’s worse. FRM seems more focused, aligned with my role. Options:
- FRM Part 1 (Aug 2025)—quicker, risk-centric.
- CFA Level 2 (Nov 2025)—broader, but a slog.
Questions:
- FRM P1 a good fit for me, or stick with CFA? Other paths?
- Anyone blended business/tech—what paid off? Seniors say certs don’t matter if you ace tech interviews and learn business on the job.
Appreciate real takes—especially from IB tech folks who’ve picked a path. Thanks!
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