CFA or Executive Master in Finance

Hello, I am working in the Asset Management industry within the business development department. I would like to go into the investment side, starting as an investment analyst or equity analyst, and becoming a portfolio manager in the future. I am trying to boost my career on that track and I am wondering what is more useful and helpful to get closer to the investment area and hence have a job opportunity as junior analyst or assistant PM. I already have a MSc in Finance, but so far it did not help me to get a position on the investment side. Now, I am thinking what I should between these 2 options: Should I study and get the CFA (I mean all the 3 levels) or do an Executive Master in Finance at HEC Paris?

What do you think?

Thanks!

16 Comments
 

AM means CFA trumps. But also note that you may want to move into the PM side if you want to make that CFA worthwhile. Maybe consider switching shops? Oh, just read HEC Paris - not worthwhile parttime, considering you already have a MSF.

GoldenCinderblock: "I keep spending all my money on exotic fish so my armor sucks. Is it possible to romance multiple females? I got with the blue chick so far but I am also interested in the electronic chick and the face mask chick."
 

Thanks Frank. So you think that to go into the investment side and become a PM assistant in AM industry, I should go on with the CFA and leave the HEC master (even if it is a top tier name)? Do you think that these 2 options are not comparable at all?

Any other suggestions on top of this?

Thanks again!

 

I have seen more charter holders than anything else. I think if you are in a junior seat and do the mfin or MBA it would help to lever up to the PM position. However, I would advise on trying to get in ahead of doing a masters. That is where the charter can be handy, you knock leave I and it shows that you are in the path.

Only two sources I trust, Glenn Beck and singing woodland creatures.
 

Don't think they're comparable. As Ehmerica mentioned, I've seen more charter holders in AM. Also HEC is more of a French thing, the CFA is a global standard, so it would benefit you in the long run. So since you've got your feet partially in, I'd suggest leveraging everything to transition to the PM side.

GoldenCinderblock: "I keep spending all my money on exotic fish so my armor sucks. Is it possible to romance multiple females? I got with the blue chick so far but I am also interested in the electronic chick and the face mask chick."
 
"BreakingOutOfPWM"

The CFA network is also not to be undervalued. It's nothing like a top MBA but it's better than you would think. You can get involved with your local society as a candidate.

This is what a lot of CFA critics don't get.

GoldenCinderblock: "I keep spending all my money on exotic fish so my armor sucks. Is it possible to romance multiple females? I got with the blue chick so far but I am also interested in the electronic chick and the face mask chick."
 

Doing the charter can definitely help become an equity analyst or portfolio manager. Have you looked at the folks who are working in those positions to see what credentials they have? I would try and network with them and see what their thoughts are in terms of helping you switch paths. I would keep applying to new positions and firms to see if th Mfin helps you.

Only two sources I trust, Glenn Beck and singing woodland creatures.
 

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