Certified Investment Banking Associate (CIBA) - Is it worth it?

I'm thinking of an alternative to the CFA for certification and credentials in IB. Master's is a year or two away form now (need more work xp).

I've came across this Certified Investment Banking Associate (CIBA), is it useful? Probably learning wise it is, but is it acknowledged in the industry? US or outside?

http://investmentbankingcertification.com/benefit…

@Global Trapstar"

 
Best Response

Going to be honest with you, I've never heard of that certification until right now. Let me look it up quickly.

My thoughts: I would really question the level of detail you learn in this program in addition to its overall prestige. To your question, I would stress that you NOT consider this program as an alternative to the CFA which, without a doubt, has a highly regarded reputation among professionals on a global scale. In addition, this certificate seems to target prospecting analysts given the program outline which includes modules on 'how to nail a business interview' and 'how to get your business internship' as well as 'how to create a business resume'. With that in mind, I would not consider this to be remotely close to the CFA program nor consider this a "professional" designation/certificate.

However, having it/pursuing it would definitely add value in your pursuit into an IB career path (assuming it in fact teaches you applicable IB techniques as it claims) by way of which it will spice up your resume. I would consider it something like "Wall Street Prep" or some of the courses offered online – including WSO (see the Courses tab at the top of the page). Again, by doing the course, you having nothing to lose - but time. I am sure you will learn a ton with regards to modeling concepts and increase your excel proficiency (depending on your current level). At the end of the day, when compared to a student with absolutely no IB related experience, you would definitely stand out in that regard. However, If I had to choose, given the cost of $1,000, I would rather take CFA level 1 and have that displayed on my resume as oppose to this certificate, and take alternative IB modules online for a few hundred dollars instead.

That's my take on it, but I am sure other people on this site would have more insight on that.

 

Thanks man, true, never heard of it until then. Thing is CFA is more for portfolio management and equity research, so I think in the US it's not a game changer for IB prospects. However it might just be helpful where I come from in Asia-Pacific. Some people I know in IB/PE are actively pursuing CFA and one of them is going to be a charterholder soon. Or maybe they're open to moving to portfolio mgt. or the buy side in the future. Not sure.

Cheers!

 

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