Unless otherwise noted, data in the report are from surveys conducted from 18 January 2019 to 1 March 2019. Some totals may not equal exactly 100% due to rounding.
The CFA Institute member/candidate survey on skills, experience, and motivations includes 3,832 responses, with a margin of error of +/–1.6%. The respondents have 23 different functional roles. Overall, respondents come from the Americas (29%), Asia Pacific (33%), and Europe, Middle East, and Africa (38%); 72% are men and 27% are women, with 1% unspecified. In terms of client base, 46% work with institutions, 39% work with individuals, and for 15%, it is not applicable.
CFA Institute members are 24% of the total, and 96% are currently working in the investment industry. In terms of work experience, they are relatively evenly distributed; 28% have up to 10 years of experience, 35% have 11–20 years of experience, and 37% have 20 or more years of experience. The most common functional roles are in portfolio management at 54% (43% portfolio managers, 6% chief investment officers, and 5% managers of managers).
CFA candidates represent 76% of the total, and 75% are currently working in the investment industry. In terms of work experience, 76% of candidates have 0–5 years of work experience. Roles are much more diverse among candidates, with the most common functional role being that of analyst at 24%.
The industry leader opinion survey includes 133 responses, with a margin of error of +/–8%. Respondents come from the Americas (43%), Asia Pacific (21%), and Europe, Middle East, and Africa (36%).
The CFA Institute Future of Finance initiative is a long-term, global effort to shape a trustworthy, forward-thinking investment profession that better serves society. For more information, visit cfainstitute.org/research/future-finance or contact us at [email protected] to offer your ideas about how to shape the industry for the future.
Authors
Editor
Future of Finance Content Council
Steering Committee
Contributors
We would like to thank those who contributed ideas and feedback through interviews or group discussions, including roundtables held in:
In addition, we are grateful for input from the New York Young Leaders Group and those who lead our extra-large societies.