Investment Advisor Certification (IAC)

The CIFA Investment Advisor Certificate (IAC) programme is an in-depth, graduate entry-level certification designed to give our financial students a structured e-learning programme that introduces them to the UK regulations and professional ethics; investment risk and taxation: and derivatives - all of which are critical elements of continuing professional development within the investment profession. 

The CIFA Investment Advisor Certificate is suitable for  graduates, beginning their career, who need to enhance their knowledge and showcase their commitment to further development in the financial industry, prior to undertaking FCA regulated qualifications.

Unit 1 "Introduction to UK Financial Regulation & Professional Integrity" consists of 10 chapters covering:

UK Financial Markets

UK Financial Services & Risk

Contract & Trust: Legal Framework

Professionalism and Ethics

 Regulators of the K Financial Services

Governance, Principles & Regulations (FCA & PRA)

Competence of Companies & Individuals (FCA & PRA)

Regulations Relating to Financial Crime 

Complaints & Redress

COBS: Conduct of Business Sourcebook of the FCA

Unit 2 "Introduction to Investment Risk & Taxation" consists of 8 chapters covering:

Various Types of Asset Classes

The Macroeconomic Environment

Investment Risk & Return: The Basic Principles

Investor & Investment Taxation

Types of Investment Products

Planning and Constructing Portfolios

Providing Investment Advice

Performance & Reviewing of Portfolios

Unit 3 "Derivatives" consists of 7 chapters covering:

Introduction to Derivatives

Futures & Forwards

Options

Gearing

Liquidity

Over-the-Counter v Exchange Traded Products

Markets & Participants