CFAs and CPAs may sound like the same thing, but their responsibilities differ. For people who are not familiar with the financial and investment industries, the differences between the two may not be that clear. While CFAs and CPAs are both financial professionals, these individuals travel along different educational and professional paths.
What is a CFA?
A CFA, or chartered financial analyst, analyzes financial reports. Such reports include financial statements revolving around wealth planning and mutual and hedge funds.
The job of a CFA, or a chartered financial analyst, is to analyze financial reports. These financial reports include financial statements that revolve around wealth planning and mutual and hedge funds. Typically, CFAs find employment with investment management companies, equity firms, and organizations that navigate mutual and hedge funds. In addition, CFAs can work with individuals to plan personal finances and offer advice on investing.
The path to becoming a CFA involves a slew of experience, including four years of some mix of professional and educational experience. Typically, a bachelor’s degree or four years of professional experience are valid for becoming a CFA, and precede a triumvirate of exams to earn the CFA designation. Such a designation is awarded by the non-profit organization known as the CFA institute. This global organization lays out standards of professionalism and ethics in the investment industry.
What is a CPA?
A CPA, or certified public accountant, is an individual who has passed the Uniform Certified Public Accountant Examination. The exam is given by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Professionals must also meet their state’s requirements in order to be allowed into the ranks of the Institute.
The job of a CPA is to audit and put together the financial reports that CFAs analyze. They are involved with audits, accounting and taxes; specifically, CPAs keep track of the business dealings of the individuals and companies for whom they work. In addition to putting together this documentation, CPAs also file and officially report them. Outside of formal reports, CPAs are able to give advice about how to pay as little taxes and possible and how to profit as much as possible.
In conclusion, these are the differences between CPAs and CFAs. CFAs are involved in the analysis of financial reports, while CPAs create those reports. They are two very different types of professionals involved in finance that commonly get confused. However, knowing the differences can help you make better decisions when you need financial planning help!