CPFS-Pro – Certified Personal Finance Specialist
About the CPFS-Pro Program
Certified Personal Finance Specialist® – Pro (CPFS®-Pro) program is a specialized certification designed to enhance the personal finance management skills of finance professionals. This program is particularly beneficial for Mutual Fund Distributors (MFDs), Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs), Insurance Consultants, Wealth Managers, Relationship Managers (RMs), Brokers, and other finance professionals aiming to deepen their expertise in wealth and investment management, as well as tax planning.
The CPFS®-Pro certification is structured to bridge the gap between formal education and practical financial advisory skills. It provides a comprehensive understanding of personal finance management, enabling professionals to offer informed advice to their clients. The course is delivered entirely online through by allowing for flexible learning. Upon completion, candidates are awarded the CPFS®-Pro designation, which serves as a stepping stone to the Chartered Wealth Manager® (CWM®) certification.
Program Overview
The CPFS®-Pro program covers a range of topics essential for personal finance specialists:
- Financial Planning & Wealth Management
- Fixed Income Securities
- New Equity Analysis & Capital Markets
- Alternative Assets
- Personal Tax Planning
Understanding the fundamentals of wealth management, including time value of money, Net Present Value (NPV), Internal Rate of Return (IRR), and strategies for pre and post-retirement planning.
Learning about fixed income instruments, calculating bond measures like Yield to Maturity (YTM) and Modified Duration, and constructing bond portfolios aligned with client goals.
Exploring equity valuation approaches, relative valuation models, asset allocation, and managing mutual fund portfolios.
Introduction to alternative investments, including private equity, hedge funds, and Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) in India.
Comparing tax-saving investments, computing taxes under various income heads, understanding retirement benefits and their tax treatment, and exploring investment options for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs).
The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of wealth management, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications.
Examination Format
Mode of Study: 100% online or hybrid
Study Duration: Approximately 25 hours of training.
Examination: Single exam certification with a duration of 90 minutes.
Career Opportunities
The CPFS®-Pro program is ideal for professionals in the finance industry seeking to enhance their personal finance management skills:
Mutual Fund Distributors (MFDs)
Registered Investment Advisors
Independent Financial Advisors
Insurance Consultants
Wealth Managers
Private Bankers
Relationship Manager
Brokers
Finance Professionals such as Chartered Accountants (CAs) and Company Secretaries (CSs)