The CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) program is a professional credential offered by CFA Institute to investment and financial professionals. The 3-level program focuses on investment tools, asset valuation, portfolio management, ethics, and other topics relevant to the financial industry. Earning the CFA charter demonstrates mastery of analytical skills and professional standards needed for a career in investment management. Benefits of the charter include real-world expertise, career recognition, ethical grounding, and access to a large global network of charterholders and top employers in the financial field. The program is designed to be completed over multiple years, requiring passing sequential exams and meeting work experience requirements.