The Association of Investment Companies (AIC) has launched a programme of study and certification for financial advisers, financial planners and paraplanners.
The Investment Company Accreditation is a three-hour online course that covers essential investment company topics, including discounts and premiums, gearing and the income features of investment companies.
Successful completion of the programme entitles participants to a certificate from the AIC demonstrating their knowledge of the structure and features of investment companies.
The course is broken into four sections, each offering up to 45 minutes CPD. It is accredited by the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) and the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment (CISI).
It also aligns with the CII’s Professional Map, supporting several competencies related to financial planning and paraplanning.
Participation is free of charge for finance professionals.
“Broadening the understanding and use of investment companies is a key part of the AIC’s mission,” said Nick Britton, head of intermediary communications at the AIC (pictured). “The Investment Company Accreditation is designed as a way for financial advisers, planners and paraplanners to show they understand the structure and features of investment companies.
“The courses are interactive and can be taken at any time, making learning accessible and convenient,” Britton continued. “We hope that the Investment Company Accreditation will encourage a new generation of advisers to find their way to investment companies, which could have so many benefits for their clients.”
