Introduction
After months of studying & hard work you have successfully passed CFA Level 1. Now that you’ve achieved this important step you might be wondering how it can benefit your career. If you are finishing your bachelor’s degree you may be curious about if passing Level I can help you find a job. Or if you are already working in finance you may be considering if it can help you move up to a better position. CFA is globally recognized and demonstrates your knowledge of basic finance & investment principles and your commitment to the industry. In India a vibrant & growing financial sector offers a wealth of opportunities for CFA Level 1 candidates. This blog we as Unique Global Education will help answer those questions.
CFA Level 1 Roles and Salary
After you have completed CFA L 1 several entry-level positions are available in India’s financial sector. Given are some of the common roles:
- Financial Analyst
In this role you analyze financial-data & trends to help companies make informed investment decisions. A popular starting point for CFA candidates.
- Equity Research Analyst
As a junior equity research analyst you’ll study companies & industries to provide investment insights & recommendations, often a stepping stone into asset-management.
- Investment Banking Analyst
Analysts in investment banking assist in the analysis of market trends and help prepare financial models and reports for clients. It’s a demanding role but offers excellent exposure to finance.
- Risk Analyst
Involves assessing and identifying potential risks that could impact a business. You will work to develop strategies to mitigate these risks.
- Accountant or Assistant Accounting Manager
Working with financial-records and reports you will gain hands-on experience managing financial data and supporting business operations.
The salary for these positions can vary depending on the company & location. However entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4 – 8 lakhs per annum While passing CFA L1 does not guarantee a higher salary it can improve your chances of securing a competitive position.
CFA Expected Salary for Experienced Professionals
For professionals who are experienced and have passed CFA L1 the salary expectations can be much higher.
- Experience in Finance
Professionals with prior experience in finance can expect higher salaries often ranging from INR 8 – 15 lakhs per annum depending on their role and the company.
- Advanced Roles
With experience CFA L1 holders can move into advanced roles such as senior-financial analysts, fund managers, or portfolio-managers where salaries can exceed INR 20 lakhs annually.
- Continued CFA Progress
Candidates pursuing Level 2 – Level 3 of the CFA program are often considered more favourably for promotions and higher salary packages due to their commitment to professional development
Top Companies that Employ CFA Level 1 Professionals in India
Several prestigious companies in India actively seek CFA Level 1 candidates to fill various roles within their organizations. Some of the top employers include:
- Banks
Major banks like HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, and Axis Bank frequently hire CFA Level 1 professionals for various roles including risk management and financial analysis.
- Investment Firms
Companies such as Edelweiss Financial Services Motilal Oswal & Franklin Templeton Investments offer positions for equity research analysts and portfolio managers.
- Consulting Firms
Global consulting giants like Deloitte, EY, and KPMG seek CFA Level 1 candidates for advisory and consulting roles in finance.
- Financial Services Companies
Companies like CRISIL, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), and Infosys offer diverse roles for CFA Level 1 holders, especially in financial analysis and consultin
Conclusion
Passing CFA Level is an excellent first step for anyone aspiring to build a career in finance. While it doesn’t guarantee a job or a high salary it does open the door to a range of opportunities in India’s ever changing financial sector. By using your CFA certification & gaining relevant experience, you can advance to more senior and rewarding positions. Moreover continuing your CFA journey by pursuing Levels 2 and 3 can further enhance your career prospects and earning potential.
FAQs
Q- Can I get a job after passing CFA Level 1?
Ans – Yes, passing CFA Level 1 can help you secure entry-level positions in finance.
Q: Does passing CFA Level 1 guarantee a high salary?
Ans – No while it enhances your resume, a high salary depends on your experience, role, and employer.
Q: Should I continue to CFA Level 2 and 3?
Ans – Continuing to CFA Levels 2 and 3 is beneficial for long-term career growth in finance It shows your dedication to field and can lead to more advanced roles with higher salaries.
Q: Which sectors hire CFA Level 1 candidates?
Ans – CFA Level 1 candidates are often hired by banks, investment firms, consulting firms, and financial services companies for various roles in finance and analysis.
