Dear All, I am considering of taking the June 07 CFA exam now, but I have heard there's a relatively new qualification called CAIA. Which one do you guys think is more useful in the future?

Great question. I am currently studying the CAIA materials. CFA has become the top recognized designation for analysts, in all areas. CFA is broader and will take longer than CAIA. CAIA is focused on AI.However, *IF* you are facing prospects where CAIA would definately be valuable (like a hedge fund in these areas), then I could see people doing CAIA first, and CFA later.These two programs do *different* things. So, I think the answer depends on your situation.But, I think the CAIA materials are an excellent collection of readings, and is an excellent program for what it is--a program for the AI analyst. (But today the lines are so blurred, probably everybody could benefit from this program.)In any case, why not take a look at the readings, discuss with boss, or just pick them up and dig in, and see if it's right for you.CAIA Readings(I am not associated with CAIA, merely trying to help.)

Haha, thank you very much for your help, it was very helpful indeed. I am joining the bank in sept 07, not sure if they will sponsor me to do the exam before that date. Anyway, thanks again!

You are very welcome.There is also PRMIA PRM and GARP FRM you might look at.

it seems CAIA focuses more on trading strategies, might be more valuable for thoese people who wanne be a trader, that is why its enrollment fee is so high. anyway, its curriculum reading list is excellent.

Yeah maybe so, but I still think it's still a great selection of readings for anyone in finance, risk management, etc.

hey, OscarWan, in fact, as more n more ppl are competing for a job in the financial industry, cerfiticates like CFA are becoming more important. It's a good idea to take it. Level I is easy as long as u have the financial backgrounds; then gradually u need to spend more time if u want to conquer level II, III. good luck!