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What will you learn about?

  • Explain the systematic approach to investment management.
  • Describe portfolio theory, risk, and return.
  • Compare the Capital Asset Pricing Model and the Market Model.
  • Describe the advantages and disadvantages of investing internationally.
  • Describe the benefits of an asset allocation strategy.
  • Explain how to create an appropriate strategic asset allocation for a client.
  • Explain the importance of rebalancing and apply an appropriate rebalancing strategy for your clients.
  • Explain how to use a tactical asset allocation strategy with a client.
  • List and define the different sources of volatility that impact mutual fund returns.
  • Apply the steps involved in the mutual fund selection process, including volatility calculations.
  • Analyze mutual funds using the criteria of people.
  • Analyze mutual funds using the criteria of process.
  • Analyze mutual funds using the criteria of philosophy.
  • Analyze mutual funds using the criteria of performance.
  • Explain the regulatory requirements and different legal structures of ETFs.
  • Describe the key features of exchange-traded funds.
  • Differentiate among the types of ETFs.
  • Identify and explain the risks specific to ETFs.
  • Explain what an alternative investment is.
  • Discuss the benefits of adding alternative investments to a portfolio.
  • Describe the main structural features of hedge funds, alternative mutual funds, funds of hedge funds, and closed-end funds.
  • Describe the risks of investing in alternatives and the suitability of such investments.

How will you learn?

CSI’s online learning system helps you meet your study goals. You’ll benefit from:

  • Learning objectives and goals that keep you focused
  • Interactive tools to help you evaluate and apply course material
  • Course updates
  • Assistance from CSI’s academic support specialists

What is the course syllabus?

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Module 1 – Introduction to Investment Management MFDA CE PD Credits: 2

In this module, we provide a systematic approach to investment management. We describe portfolio risk and return, and we examine topics including correlation, mean variance, and diversification. We also explain how to use the Capital Asset Pricing Model and the market model to measure expected return. Finally, we discuss the topic of international investment.

Topics covered in this module:

  • A Systematic Approach to Investment Management
  • Portfolio Theory
  • International Investing

Module 2 – Asset Allocation MFDA CE PD Credits: 2

In this module, we outline the steps and describe the benefits of a well-executed asset allocation strategy. The module also guides you through the important considerations of and common methods used in a strategic asset allocation. We then cover the subject of rebalancing your clients’ portfolios to gain the most benefit at the lowest cost. Finally, we explain various approaches, benefits, and risks to tactical asset allocation.

Topics covered in this module:

  • Asset Allocation
  • Strategic Asset Allocation
  • Rebalancing
  • Tactical Asset Allocation

Module 3 – Advanced Mutual Fund Selection MFDA CE PD Credits: 2

In this module, we explore various factors that affect mutual fund volatility. Included in the module is a ten-step process to select mutual funds within each fund category. The module then provides a set of guidelines for selecting the right people to manage your clients’ mutual funds. We end with an exploration of processes that many successful investment management firms have in common, as well as equity and fixed-income investment philosophies and performance factors.

Topics covered in this module:

  • Volatility in Mutual Fund Returns
  • The Steps in Selecting a Mutual Fund
  • People
  • Process
  • Philosophy
  • Performance

Module 4 – Overview of ETFs and Liquid Alts MFDA CE PD Credits: 2

In this module, you will learn about the regulation, structure, and taxation of exchange-traded funds. We discuss the features, risks, and various types of exchange-traded funds. You will also learn about the benefits, risks, and structure of alternative investments, including hedge funds and liquid alternatives.

Topics covered in this module:

  • The Regulation and Structure of Exchange-Traded Funds
  • Key Features of Exchange-Traded Funds
  • The Various Types of Exchange-Traded Funds
  • The Risks of Investing in Exchange-Traded Funds
  • Alternative Investments
  • Benefits and Risks of Investing in Alternatives
  • Alternative Investment Structures
  • Alternative Investment Risk Drivers and Suitability

Module and Course Completion

Upon successfully completing each course module (by completing the module’s online quiz), you will earn multi-jurisdictional continuing education (CE) credits as shown in the table below. Thus, you will earn CE credits incrementally as you progress through the course.

Once you complete all modules in this course, you will have completed the full course. You can then download a Notice of Course Completion through your student profile. This notice will remain on your profile as formal confirmation of your course completion.