To all felloe members,

Pl read follw:

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Any person who even indirectly by act, advertisement, conduct or negotiation becomes involved in any attempt to deal in securities may be considered to be trading in securities (or, in Quebec, to be carrying on business as a dealer or advisor) illegally unless the person is registered. This provision is a warning to those who would act as finders or intermediaries in arranging the sale of securities, and to those who are doing investor-relations work.
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I just thought it was neccessary to cut & paste this para from the CPH text, Sec I, chapter 3, 1st page. It does not mean that we can't discuss on this forum abt stock mkt, but one has to be very careful. And in any case, I personally, wouldn't give so called TIPS to anybody. Coz, #1 it's not being professional & #2 I do not know anybody's investment objectives, risk tolerance and ability to sustain loss.

I once again sincerely urge to all that in your own interest, either take up one of the preliminary courses thru CSI or consult a professional advisor. You may pay some fees, but it would be much much less than incurring huge losses by relying on TIPS.

chow

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Let's help each other to grow & prosper in Canada

I have collected some links at
http:/www.geocities.com/balsmin/stock.html
also read
http:/www.geocities.com/balsmin/stockinfo.html
and
http:/www.geocities.com/balsmin/stockselect.html

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trying to find real persons

Yours Truly / others,
Could you please let us know if the CSI courses are of value within the finance industry?
I have some knowledge of the Stock markets / MFs but am seeking to gain some formal education. In that view is CSI the right place to start?
Also what are the job opportunities once a person is successful in gaining say the CIM designation

Thanks
AJ

Hi ajm,

In order to become an advisor for MFs one has to complete CSC from CSI or any other course like the one from IFIC. However, if one wants to get licensed in securities one has to complete CPH after CSC.

CSC is the entry level course. It opens up various avenues for you. If you want to pursue financial planning then complete PFPC and then CFP. However, if your interest is purely investments then you can choose CSC+CIM route. After you complete CIM, you can aspire to become an Investment Advisor or Portfolio Manager etc. If you are a person who wants to tackle advanced investment strategies then you can also think of doing Derivatives Fundamentals Course (DFC). From my personal experience I'd suggest that if you are good in Maths. and Economics and have a way with numbers then go for the CIM route. It is very rewarding.

If you have any other questions, feel free to contact me. I have gone through all this and would be more than happy to guide anyone thinking of entering the financial world. I want new immigrants avoid making the same mistakes that I made.

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Man's Best Friend

Yours Truly - Thanks for the info

I am currently in Dubai and seek some clarifications:

1) How is the current job market for someone who has completed CIM and /or DFC designations. Or is CFP a better bet?
2) Generally how long does it take an average person (desi ) to complete these designations - I know that there are several courses one has to pass to acheive the designation
3) You mentioned that you had made mistakes - which you wish other desis avoid - could you kindly shed some light on this

I am not from a finance background but have traded stocks & options for many many years and I am now seriously thinking of formalising my knowledge when I get the chance when we migrate to Canada

Please advise
Thanks
AJ

Hi ajm,

(1) CFP is certainly a more prestigious and respected designation. However, a CFP spends lot of time in managing clients' money. Therefore, CIM should be considered an added advantage. Moreover, CSI's designations like FMA and CIM are not universally recognized while CFP is.
The market for CFPs is very good. However, to be successful one must be a good communicator and relation-builder. The qualification comes second.

(2) Time required to complete these designations depends on an individual.

(3) I don't think I should document here all the mistakes I made.

I wish you all the best.

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Man's Best Friend