Is CFA Beneficial for Hedge Fund Startup (Non-Traditional Background)

I’m looking for some direction regarding pursing the CFA designation with regards to my future hedge fund plan. I have a non-traditional professional background, so looking for some advice.

I am 36, and graduated with a finance degree in 2001. After school, I spent 1.5 years working at a major warehouse. I didn’t enjoy the sales so left the industry. I’ve been trading my personal account/funds since 2001 with varying levels of success. I love trading. The past 3 years I have specialized in an index derivatives strategy that is producing. I’ve now decided that I am going to start an incubator fund to get 2 years of verifiable results with the intention of launching a small hedge fund in 2021.

I’m not looking to manage billions, and probably not even institutional money, but planning to stick with HNW individuals and family offices.

I’m not asking for advice about the above...that is just the background, which brings me to my question.

Would it be beneficial to pursue the CFA designation knowing that it won’t directly impact my trading strategy (I’ve been studying options for 7+ years now, and have that locked in), but doing it to mainly to provide credibility to me and my future fund, primarily with raising funds.

I know I would learn and gain more understanding of the investment arena in general, and it would not be a waste of time, but I know how difficult it is and the time commitment involved (I have 5 kids under the age of 8). So I’m wondering if you would recommend going after it?

Any other insight is also welcomed.

2 Comments
 

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