With the booming popularity of esg investment in recent years, there has been a surging demand for esg investment analysts in the financial industry. However, many people are confused about how to equip themselves with necessary esg knowledge and practical skills when they don’t have prior working experience in this emerging area. Obtaining prestigious esg certificates such as CESGA, CFA ESG and SCR is an effective approach to break into the esg investment field. These programs offer systematic curriculums covering essential aspects of esg investing, which help build up solid understanding and credentials valued by employers.
CESGA provides comprehensive coverage of ESG analysis frameworks and practical cases
The Certified ESG Analyst (CESGA) credential offered by the European Federation of Financial Analysts Societies (EFFAS) is so far the most established ESG certification globally. Its comprehensive curriculum consists of modules like ESG Integration Strategies, ESG Reporting, ESG Integration in Valuation and Research, Responsible Investing Across Asset Classes, etc. CESGA also incorporates sample cases for applying ESG incorporation along the investment process. By passing the moderately difficult exam which tests both conceptual knowledge and case analysis skills, CESGA holders can list the credential on their business cards and prove their expertise in ESG investing.
CFA ESG certificate provides a solid introductory overview of ESG investing
The Certificate in ESG Investing by the CFA Institute covers foundational topics including introductions to ESG markets, E/S/G factors, ESG analysis frameworks, valuation techniques, portfolio construction and client reporting. Its curriculum focuses more on theories and concepts rather than practical cases. The exam difficulty is considered lower compared to CESGA. Although unable to be listed as a formal credential, passing the CFA ESG exam still represents a basic level of understanding in this emerging field. The certificate can better prepare candidates for further pursuing prestigious charters like CFA, and increase competitiveness in job hunting.
SCR certificate highlights sustainability and climate change risk management
The Sustainability and Climate Risk (SCR) certificate issued by GARP puts stress on climate change and its financial impacts. Its curriculum emphasizes topics like climate change foundations, risk measurement and management, scenario analysis, sustainable finance instruments, etc. Professionals in risk management fields can benefit from the SCR’s focused coverage of sustainability and climate change topics. Similar to CFA ESG, SCR can also demonstrate basic knowledge, and serve as a helpful step towards more advanced programs such as FRM.
CESGA, CFA ESG and SCR certificates all offer quality curriculums covering different focuses of ESG investing. Obtaining these credentials can effectively compensate for lack of practical experience, and provide competitive advantages in hunting for ESG investment analyst positions.