Chartered Accountants in Financial Services

Amrita T., a CA, currently works in the Project Finance firm of Tata Capital. Srikanth N was treasurer of a large MNC bank. What is it that prompted them to move into the mainstream of Financial Services?

The career growth and money are both much more attractive! The traditional accounting practice is a support function, and there are lots of issues with setting up your own practice. Today, campus placement is organized by ICAI, and banks and financial institutions are enthusiastic recruiters.

Axis Bank last year for instance, had about 20% of its recruits into SME banking coming from the CA fraternity; the rest were B-Schoolers.

But, Amrita is evaluating going in for an MBA. Why? I have always felt the gap in my knowledge. My CA degree is great in its way, but I need to know more about the different divisions of a bank and financial products and markets, from a business perspective.

Is there an alternative to spending two years and lakhs of rupees, for essentially just broadening one’s knowledge base? After all, a CA is a good, tough and rigorous degree. Do you need another?

CA + Banking & Financial Services (BFS) knowledge: An unbeatable combo:

CAs are known for their strong process and number orientation. Let’s look at where they can fit:

The list below is just a beginning!

If only they had at least a working knowledge of financial services, the combination would be terrific says a senior HR manager from a leading bank.

Some popular certifications available in India today, that bridge this gap are NSEs Certifications in Financial Markets (NCFM), Certified Financial Planner (CFP) in Wealth Management, and FLIP’s range of certifications across Banking & Financial Services.

FLIP (www.learnwithflip.com), a senior IIM alumni initiative, offers, for the first time in India, a comprehensive range of certifications across BFS. Leading banks and FIs have endorsed these certifications, with brokerages like India Infoline even guaranteeing interviews for Financial Advisor roles, for those who have cleared FLIP’s Wealth Management certification. Three of its certifications are co-branded with the National Stock Exchange.

So, my advice to students is pick up some additional relevant certifications and courses in parallel with your CA preparation. It’ll make that crucial difference when you step into the job market.

Even working professionals can take up such courses for better career prospects.

I hope this article was useful to you. I look forward to any comments/questions that you have.