Is CFA worth it?

From what I've researched, it slightly helps if you ever want to manage a portfolio one day (think Hedge Fund PMs and Asset Management). Approximately 50% of Hedge Fund PMs have a CFA so I don't think it would hurt, but definitely not a game-changer. If you're planning on pursuing IB/PE, you're probably better off studying for the GMAT/GRE if an MBA is in your future.

More common for ER and HF/PM. If you have the time and already have a strong background in the subject matter (assuming you do if you’re done with recruiting and have a job lined up already) it can’t hurt at all. I’d definitely recommend if you’re thinking about any of the above as future exit ops. Personally I’m going ER and in ER it’s commonly used as a promotion base (most Associates pass the CFA). Can also be a nice aid to break into a top HF and can really help broaden your opportunities post banking. So bottom line, everything I’ve heard about it is it’s worth it if you commit to studying for it and can be useful next to your name in the future.

Is the CFA investment foundations certificate worth doing at all?

A lot of work for not that much gain..and then if you have CFA Level 1 on your resume, everyone will ask if you are going to get 2 and 3 etc. If you want to do it then do it all the way which will be a three year process.