Financial Securities
About Financial Securities
In both public and private markets, securities are fungible, tradeable financial instruments used to raise cash. The phrase can be used to refer to any kind of financial instrument, however different jurisdictions have different legal definitions for it. The three main categories of securities are:
- Equity, which gives investors ownership rights
- Debt, which is effectively a loan returned with recurring payments
- Hybrids include features of both debt and equity.
Who should take the Financial Securities Exam?
- Finance and Investment managers, senior executives, executives
- Students
- Teachers
- Professionals in the securities markets.
- Professionals in other industries interested in aiming knowledge of the securities.
Skills Required
- Investment Fundamentals
- Types of Financial Securities
- Financial Mathematics & Valuation
- Market Operations & Trading
- Regulations & Ethics
- Risk Management & Performance Analysis
Financial Securities Certification Course Outline
- Introduction to Financial Securities
- Equity Securities
- Debt Securities (Fixed Income)
- Derivatives & Structured Products
- Mutual Funds & ETFs
Certificate in Financial Securities FAQs
What is the passing score for the Financial Securities exam?
Passing criteria vary but generally range between 60% and 75%, with some providers requiring minimum scores in specific sections such as regulation or investment analysis.
What study resources are recommended for this exam?
Recommended resources include financial textbooks, practice exams, regulatory publications, financial market reports, and study guides from recognized financial institutions.
Are calculations and formulas required in the exam?
Yes, the exam often requires candidates to perform calculations related to bond yields, stock valuation, option pricing, and portfolio risk and return metrics.
How long does the Financial Securities exam usually last?
The exam duration typically ranges from 90 minutes to 3 hours depending on the certifying body or academic institution offering the certification.
What financial instruments should I be familiar with for the exam?
Candidates should understand the characteristics and valuation of stocks, bonds, mutual funds, convertible securities, derivatives, and structured products.
Is prior work experience in finance required to take the exam?
While prior experience can be beneficial, it is not mandatory. A solid understanding of financial principles and familiarity with market operations is sufficient for preparation.
What is the format of the Financial Securities exam?
The exam typically includes multiple-choice questions, case studies, short-answer questions, and numerical problems that test both theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Who is eligible to take the Financial Securities exam?
The exam is suitable for finance professionals, investment advisors, students of finance or economics, compliance officers, and anyone pursuing a career in capital markets or financial services.
What topics are covered in the Financial Securities exam?
Key topics include equity and debt instruments, derivatives, portfolio theory, market structures, securities trading, valuation techniques, and financial regulations.
What is the purpose of the Financial Securities exam?
The exam is designed to assess a candidate’s comprehensive understanding of various financial instruments, market mechanisms, investment strategies, and regulatory frameworks related to securities.