Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) is a course that qualifies candidates to work in the field of finance. It is a globally recognised course that allows candidates to work in India as well as countries like the US, UK, UAE, Hong Kong and Australia.
In the last few years, the demand for CFAs has risen drastically and a lot of companies are hiring experts who can help with the management of investment portfolios. Moreover, international companies in India are more inclined toward hiring people with globally recognised qualifications as opposed to local qualifications.
Scope of CFA
After completion of CFA, you can work in a variety of job profiles in the field of finance. Some of the most commonly preferred jobs that CFA charter holders take up are Investment Banking and Stockbroking.
In general, the average starting salary of a CFA is INR 6 to 8 lpa. With enough experience in wealth management and portfolio management, you may also become a Hedge Fund Manager which may help you earn a salary of INR 15 lpa.
There are numerous benefits of becoming a CFA. In addition to working in India, a CFA can also explore multiple opportunities in other countries such as the US, UK, Singapore, Hong Kong and UAE. Indian companies like Motilal Oswal and ICICI Securities as well as international companies like Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley and the Big 4 (KPMG, Deloitte, EY and PwC).
CFA Salary based on levels
| Level of CFA Cleared | Average Salary (in INR) |
| Level 1 | 4 – 5.4 lpa |
| Level 2 | 6 lpa |
| Level 3 | 10+ lpa |
CFA Salary in India based on Job Profile
Based on what job profile you work in, your average salary after completing CFA might be as follows.
| Job profile | Average Starting Salary (in INR) |
| Financial Analyst | 6,00,000 to 7,00,000 |
| Portfolio Manager | 6,50,000 to 7,50,000 |
| Finance Manager | 9,00,000 to 10,00,000 |
| Financial Advisor | 4,00,000 to 5,00,000 |
| Investment Banker | 9,00,000 to 10,00,000 |
| Hedge Fund Manager | 10,00,000 to 15,00,000 |
CFA Job Profiles
If you are planning to pursue CFA course, there are a lot of profiles that you can work in depending on your preference and skills.
1. Financial Analyst
As a Financial Analyst, you will be responsible for going through the financial data and determining the next steps that should be taken to maximise the amount of profit/revenue earned. A financial analyst will also predict financial outcomes based on the current market trends and participate in making business decisions.
Average Salary of a Financial Analyst is around 56,000 Per Month
2. Portfolio Manager
A Portfolio Manager’s primary task is to make important decisions concerning investment, either for themselves or for a client. Such professionals employ several investment strategies to help their clients meet certain financial goals. This job requires a lot of research and strategic thinking to know when to let go of certain investments and when to modify them to get the best outcome.
Average Salary of a Portfolio Manager is around 52,000 – 54,000 Per Month
3. Finance Manager Salary
A Finance Manager is someone capable of overseeing the financial operations of a company. In a smaller company, they may be required to manage the entire portfolio of the company whereas in a larger company they may be required to specialise in specific tasks and aspects of finance. Some tasks handled by a finance manager include budgeting, cash flow management, making financial forecasts and managing potential risks.
Average Salary of a Finance Manager is around 84,000 Per Month
4. Financial Advisor
The primary role of a Financial Advisor is to give guidance on how their client or a company can manage their money and finances in a better way. This includes making new trades, creating financial plans, evaluating existing investments and making the necessary changes.
Average Salary of a Financial Advisor is around 33,000 Per Month
5. Investment Banker
Career in investment banking has gained a lot of popularity in the last few years. One of the main reasons behind the increase in demand for CFA across the world is that people want to work as Investment Bankers in prestigious companies. An Investment Banker is someone who handles all the investments for a company, a client or themselves. This includes issuing stocks, arranging purchases and sales, looking after mergers and acquisitions, and preparing bond offerings.
Average Salary of a Investment Banker is around 77,000 Per Month
6. Hedge Fund Manager
A hedge fund manager is someone who is responsible for looking after the operations of a hedge fund. Hedge funds are pooled investment funds made by high net worth individuals that have the potential to give high returns with the help of different kinds of investment strategies.
Average Salary of a Hedge Fund Manager is around 125,000 Per Month
CFA Eligibility
Students who have completed their graduation or are in their final year of graduation can register for the CFA exams.
CFA Exam Structure
The exam structure of CFA is quite simple. It consists of 3 levels i.e Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3.
Level 1 exams can be given in February, May, August, and Nov, Level 2 can be given in February, August, and November, and Level 3 in May and August.
Your salary after CFA may largely depend on the kind of work experience you have and your academic qualifications. Moreover, even after you start working as a financial analyst, the trajectory of growth you experience and your salary package depends on your skills in finance and the kind of impression you make on your peers.
The Chartered Financial Analyst is a globally recognised qualification in the field of finance and investment. If you have recently completed your graduation or are appearing for your final semester, you may be eligible to become a CFA. Interested? We highly recommend checking out our Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) course.
FAQ
How are the CFA exams held?
CFA exams are held at a centre with computer-based exams. There are no written exams at any level.
What is the passing rate of CFA?
The global passing rate for CFA is as follows: Level 1: 42% Level 2: 45% Level 3: 54%. Zell’s passing rate for CFA is 80%.
How much does it cost to pursue CFA?
Overall, the CFA course should cost you approximately INR 3 to 3.5 lakhs. This amount is inclusive of the exam registration fees, training fees and cost of the study material. The registration would cost USD 450 (approximately INR 34,470), and the cost of clearing each level is between USD 700 to 1000 (approximately INR 55,000 to INR 75,000). For the training fees for all 3 levels of CFA, you should expect to pay fees of anywhere between INR 25,000 to INR 60,000.
Partham Barot is an ACCA-certified professional. showcasing his expertise in finance and accountancy. he’s revolutionising education by focusing on practical, real-world skills. Partham’s achievements underscore his commitment to elevating educational standards and empowering the next generation of professionals.
