The Securities and Exchanges Commission announced that the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst Association’s educational program will be added to their internal hedge fund trainingsystem.

In a speech given to the Securities Industry Association at their “Hedge Funds & Alternative Investments Conference”, Commissioner Roel C. Campos of the Securities and Exchange Commission announced that the SEC will be integrating the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst Association’s charter program into their internal hedge fund training system.

The CAIA program is comprised of a two level alternative investment exam system. The curriculum focuses on the five core areas of alternative investments: hedge funds, managed futures, privateequity, commodities and real estate. A thorough review of traditional finance fundamentals and professional standards is also incorporated.

Craig Asche, Executive Director of the CAIA Association, was excited to hear the news. “We’re thrilled that the SEC has chosen our program to compliment their own internal training initiatives!”

The SEC joins a growing list of organizations that use the CAIA examinations as an essential part of their AI training program, including PAAMCO, Citigroup and CSFB. Since the CAIA Association offered the first exam in February ’03, over 2,500 candidates from 46 countries have registered for the program. Over 700 organizations have sent participants through the program. Candidates to date include prime brokers, banks, advisory, consulting, asset management and accounting firms, as well as public and private pensions, foundations, family offices insurance companies and industry regulators.

Jane Buchan, a CAIA designee and Managing Director of PAAMCO, said “I have often observed on a daily basis the value that participation in the CAIA program can bring to a firm. The program provides a common analytical foundation for our employees, making it easier for us to more effectively serve our institutional investors. As a result, we consider the CAIA program required training for both investment and non-investment personnel.”

The CAIA charter is earned through successful completion of all CAIA program requirements, including the Level I and Level II examinations. Earning the designation demonstrates an individual’s comprehensive understanding of the AI space and commitment to the highest ethical and professional standards.

For further information, contact Mary Westervelt, westervelt@caia.org.