On March 7 in Europe and March 8 in Asia candidates from 8 National societies (HKSI Hong Kong, KCIAA Korea, ICFAI/CPMR India, AIAF Italy, SAAJ Japan, PABIA Poland, IEAF Spain and SFAA Switzerland) took part in the 5th session of the CIIA® Final Examinations. 

765 candidates took part in paper 1 (Economics, Financial Accounting and Financial Statement Analysis, Equity Valuation and Analysis, Corporate Finance) and 704 took part in paper 2, (Fixed Income Valuation and Analysis, Derivative Valuation and Analysis, Portfolio Management).The examinations ran smoothly, and the rigorous marking procedure showed that 

the pass rates were a healthy 70.07% for paper 1 and 66.62% for paper two. 469 candidates were awarded the designation as a result of this examination session bringing the total number of cumulative successful candidates to 1912 and the number of candidates registered in the CIIA® scheme to 3315.In September, we look forward to welcoming many candidates from at least 3 more societies to the CIIA® exams for the first time.

The Swedish Society of Financial Analysts has nearly 1 800 members, the majority of whom are financial analysts or fund managers. Sweden has a developed financial industry relative to its size and population. A high savings ratio, relatively well-funded pension plans, early adoption of mutual funds and a positive attitude towards equity investment has led to a 

sizeable capital accumulation.

The Swedish claim to fame, depending on one’s inclinations, would be either the Nobel Prize, big multinationals like Ericsson, or song groups like ABBA and Roxette. We profess that the beauty of the country, and especially that of its crown jewel, Stockholm, is the best argument in the world for a visit! Stockholm itself is very scenic: built on 14 islands it is made up of one third water, one third parks, and one third city (you can read more about Stockholm at www.stockholmtown.com). It was founded 751 years ago on the small island of Gamla Stan (Old Town), where the SFF office now is very conveniently located with the financial triangle and the AGM venue only a stone’s throw away.

I would like to extend a warm welcome to all delegates and their families. I hope to see you soon in Stockholm!

Lars-Göran Orrevall,SFF Chairman