Has Your Investment Professional Passed the Test?

Those letters behind an investment professional’s name − just what do they mean?

They’re financial designations earned through education and often long and complex examinations. You can see why investment professionals display their designations proudly.

Decoding the designations

There are more than 50 professional designations that an investment professional can earn. While they aren’t a guarantee of investing skill, they’re a mark of an educated professional.

Here are some of the most common:

• CFP (Certified Financial Planner). CFPs have been trained in insurance, investments, taxes, retirement planning, estate planning and the financial planning process.
• CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst). A CFA has demonstrated proficiency in portfolio management and investment analysis.
• ChFC (Chartered Financial Consultant). ChFCs are trained to effectively apply a comprehensive financial planning process to their clients’ needs.
• CIMA (Certified Investment Management Analyst). CIMAs are trained at selecting investments, managing risk and measuring portfolio return.
• CPA (Certified Professional Accountant). A CPA is an accountant who has met further education, statutory and licensing requirements.
• CLU (Charted Life Underwriter). A CLU is knowledgeable about life insurance needs of individuals, business owners and professionals, including income replacement, estate planning and wealth transfer.