About the CFA Charter

The CFA Charter is a distinction granted to those who undertake and pass a rigorous, graduate-level curriculum. The Program links theory and practice with real-world investment analysis and portfolio management skills, and emphasizes the highest ethical and professional standards.

Candidates must pass three exam levels and meet requirements of four years of work experience in the investment industry. They also must pledge to abide by the CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct, apply to a CFA Institute society and become a member of CFA Institute.

Those who meet the requirements benefit from the extensive knowledge attained in pursuit of the Charter. In addition, they also gain the advantages of membership in an active, global community.

A 50-year history of the CFA Program

Learn how the CFA Program has become the “gold standard” of professionalism in the financial and investment communities. This special commemorative book covers the charter’s first 50 years, revealing how the ideas and perseverance of a few visionaries transformed financial analysis and institutionalized its highest ideals and best practices.

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Réjane Woodroffe, CFA

Xhora Mouth, South Africa
Charterholder since 2004

Réjane left her position as Chief Economist and Head of International Portfolio Investments for a major investment house to become the director of the Bulungula Incubator, an innovative rural development NGO operating in the former Transkei area, one of South Africa’s poorest areas. Réjane describes the group’s many accomplishments and says: "We didn't need to be the replicator; we would just be the incubator."

She also finds time to serve as a trustee and National Treasurer for the Trust for Community Outreach and Education, an NGO that focuses on land and fisher people’s rights. As a director of South Africa’s Public Investment Corporation, she advises the South African government on managing its $165 billion pension fund – the largest on the continent.