Sophie Macon 
CFA Level 2 fails more candidates than Level 1. The pass rate is 39% versus Level 1’s 43%, but the bigger issue is the format change—vignettes instead of standalone questions. Most candidates fail because they use the same study approach that worked for Level 1. Reading materials once, doing practice questions, showing up on exam …
Wealth management offers something rare in finance: seven-figure earning potential without investment banking hours. Senior wealth managers at top firms earn $500K to $5M+ annually, working 50-60 hour weeks instead of the 80-100 hours typical in investment banking. The catch? It takes 8-15 years to reach that level, and your income depends entirely on building …
I made a critical mistake during my Level 3 exam—three whole constructed-response questions left with just 15 minutes remaining. What I did next salvaged a pass, and it’s a lesson every Level 3 candidate should know before exam day. CFA Level 3 is different from Levels 1 and 2. Half the exam is essay format …
CFA Level 1 requires 300 study hours minimum. Exam: – 180 multiple-choice questions, 1.5 minutes each. 43% pass rate.– Ten topics tested, Ethics weighs most (15-20%). – Computer-based, offered 4x yearly. – Cost: $1,140-$1,490. – Optimal prep: 5-6 months. – Month 1-4: Study materials. Final 2 months: Practice exams only (6+ full mocks essential). Key …
Financial modeling uses Excel (primarily) to build mathematical representations of company performance for valuation, forecasting, and decision-making. Core model types: 3-statement, DCF, LBO, M&A, merger models. Key careers: Investment banking ($85K-$150K analyst), private equity ($100K-$180K associate), corporate FP&A ($70K-$120K), equity research ($80K-$130K). Top courses: Training the Street ($500 for 10-course bundle), CFI’s FMVA ($497, use …
Video interviews are now standard for finance roles—Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan use AI-powered systems like HireVue to screen candidates. Key tips: (1) Test equipment 30 minutes early. (2) Look at camera, not screen, for eye contact. (3) Professional attire (full suit, even off-camera). (4) Plain background, good lighting. (5) Eliminate distractions (pets, noise, notifications). …
CFP careers split into two main tracks: (1) Client Relationship Manager (business development focus, commission-based, higher earning potential) or (2) Financial Planning Specialist (analytical focus, salary-based, more stable). Career progression: Analyst ($60K-$70K) → Associate Advisor ($70K-$80K) → Service Advisor ($80K-$122K) → Lead Advisor ($127K-$213K) → Principal/Partner ($170K-$346K). Specializations include retirement planning, estate planning, wealth management, …
The FRM (Financial Risk Manager) is a 2-part computer-based exam offered by GARP, considered the top credential for risk management careers. You need to pass both parts (~250 hours study each) and show 2 years of risk management work experience. Total cost: $1,000-1,400. Pass rates: 42-47% (Part 1), 45-50% (Part 2). Offered 3x yearly (May, …
Current or potential FRM candidates often wonder what are the FRM pass rates like, in order to have a sense of FRM exam difficulty. This is also a common question we get asked when our readers compare between CFA vs FRM. The short answer? FRM exams are tough, but doable with a proper study plan. …
Quick summary: In 2026, the CPA remains the “gold standard” for accounting careers especially in the US. While it requires a 300–600 hour study commitment and exam fees ranging from $2,170–$8,170, the ROI is substantial. CPAs earn a lifetime average of $1 million more than non-certified peers and are legally required for high-level roles like …