CFA introduces private markets course

The CFA Institute has released a new online program for Australian investment professionals to gain foundational knowledge in private markets and alternative investments.

The five-course Private Markets and Alternative Investments Certificate covers a range of areas in its curriculum including private equity, private credit, real estate, infrastructure, commodities, and hedge funds.

The courses include:

• Course 1: Introduction to Private Markets and Alternative Investments
• Course 2: Private Equity and Private Credit Investments
• Course 3: Real Estate and Infrastructure Investments
• Course 4: Commodities and Natural Resources Investments
• Course 5: Hedge Fund Investments

“The investment landscape is constantly changing, and CFA Institute recognises the importance of adapting to the needs of a dynamic and diverse investment profession and client needs,” Richard Fernand, Head of Certificate Management at CFA Institute, said.

“The development of the Private Markets and Alternative Investments Certificate acknowledges both this increasingly important investment specialism and the demands of candidates as they pursue a career in the alternatives industry.

“This certificate, together with the release of the CFA Program LIII Private Markets Pathway, demonstrates CFA Institute’s commitment to developing high quality educational opportunities in the alternatives space.

“The Private Markets and Alternative Investments Certificate offers strong foundational learning and practical content providing candidates with increased confidence and enhanced credibility. We plan in the near future to release more advanced certificates that will provide learners with more advanced skills.

“The course aims to develop a learner’s ability to think critically, ask insightful questions, and innovate within the private markets and alternative investments space, introducing foundational concepts, tools, and techniques needed to open doors, further their careers, and benefit clients.”

The certificate can be undertaken by those looking to work for a General Partner (GP) firm or other alternatives specialist, existing investors or asset owners and consultants currently working for GP or Limited Partner (LP) firms.

“Australian investment professionals will be able to undertake the online program with enrolments available, and would greatly benefit from the five courses given the rising importance of alternative assets in institutional investors’ portfolios,” Lisa Carroll, CEO of CFA Societies Australia, said.

“With the growing importance of alternative assets, particularly in the portfolios of Australian superannuation funds, this course will provide essential training for financial professionals who are working, or interested in working, in private markets and alternative investments.

“This certificate will allow them to gain a broader understanding of the broad range of alternative assets and their benefit for investors’ portfolios.”