Designations

AIF® – Accredited Investment Fiduciary®

A fiduciary is someone who is managing the assets of another person and stands in a special relationship of trust, confidence, and responsibility.

An AIF® designation represents that person's knowledge of a Global Fiduciary Standard of Excellence. This standard provides specific prudent practices that lead to an organized process for making informed and consistent investment decisions.

An AIF® designee has made a commitment to foster a culture of fiduciary responsibility at his firm, and to stay current with, and diligently conform to, best investment practices and regulatory requirements of the profession.

AIF® designees are required to complete a rigorous training program, successfully pass an examination, conform to a code of ethics, and adhere to continuing education requirements on a yearly basis.

 

ChFC® – Chartered Financial Consultant®

The ChFC® designation is an advanced degree earned by candidates who have successfully completed a rigorous, comprehensive core curriculum, targeted electives, and exams for each. Courses include thorough, advanced instruction in financial planning, income taxation, insurance, investment, and estate planning.

In addition to the initial completion of required courses and exams, the ChFC® designee must complete 30 hours of continuing education courses every two years to maintain their accreditation. The designation denotes an advisor's high level of professional knowledge, skill, and integrity.

According to Tthe American College, which administers this degree, "Advisors with the ChFC® designation are required to serve you with the highest level of professionalism. All ChFC® advisors are required to do the same for clients as they would do for themselves in similar circumstances, the standard of of ethical behavior most beneficial for their clients."