Who we are

About CFA Institute

CFA Institute is the global association of investment professionals that sets the standard for professional excellence and credentials. The organization is a champion of ethical behavior in investment markets and a respected source of knowledge in the global financial community. Our aim is to create an environment where investors’ interests come first, markets function at their best, and economics grow. Our network of nearly 160 societies helps carry out our global mission in local markets.

Learn more about CFA Institute and its mission

The CFA Program and CFA charterholders

‘CFA’ is synonymous with the CFA Program and CFA charterholders.

‘CFA’ (Chartered Financial Analyst) after a person’s name, is recognised globally as one of the highest distinctions in the investment management profession.

CFA charterholders have successfully completed the rigorous CFA Program; a professional qualification requiring approximately 1000 hours of study, and three in-person exams.  

The curriculum includes topics such as: ethics; quantitative methods; economics; financial statements analysis; equity investments; alternative investments; wealth management.

There are over 190,000 CFA charterholders worldwide.  Conventional roles for CFA charterholders include: portfolio manager; research, investment or financial analyst; consultant;  financial adviser; investment strategist.  However, the qualification is valued across a wide range of roles and industries. 

CFA Society New Zealand

CFA societies operate autonomously, while supporting CFA Institute’s strategy and mission.  Society activities include; advocating for higher standards, and providing a wide range of educational, networking, and career development opportunities to local members.

CFA Society New Zealand has 616 members (March 2026); mostly CFA charterholders, with a smaller number of Associate members.  We support CFA candidates (students of the CFA Program), with 600+ registered to sit exams in New Zealand at any one time.

We promote a diverse portfolio of learning products and build community and member value through local engagement, events, mentoring, and support.

We collaborate with other organisations, advocate for issues and standards, and extend our reach to New Zealand’s wider finance community through speakers, commentary, and industry leading events.

Our mission is to lead New Zealand’s investment profession by promoting the highest standards of ethics, education and professional excellence for the ultimate benefit of society.