Fresh Thinking

What is a Certified Financial PlannerCM

The Certified Financial PlannerCM designation is an internationally recognised accreditation for Financial Planning. It is the benchmark which combines technical qualifications with practical application.

The licence is renewed annually, provided that the individual has satisfied certain educational standards, had no complaints unheld against them and continues to abide by a strict code of ethics.

There are 4 pillars which support the Certified Financial PlannerCM structure, referred to as the 4 "E"'s

  • Education

    A Certified Financial PlannerCM licensee must achieve a high level of relevant professional accreditation, such as being a solicitor, accountant or barrister or holding the Advanced Financial Planning Certificate (AFPC) or equivalent.

  • Examination

    A rigorous assessment process through the submission of a detailed financial plan which is marked against the CFPCM standards.

  • Ethics

    Fiduciary duty to clients, including explicit disclosure of remuneration.

  • Experience

    At least three years' relevant experience of financial planning in practice.

Although there are in the region of 80,000 CFPCM qualified Financial Planners worldwide, there are only around 800 in the UK (2008).

To find out more click on the Institute of Financial Planning logo at the top of the page to be taken to their website.

"No investment decision should be taken based on the content of this website. Always take full individual advice first, the regulations governing tax rates and investments may change in the future."

cfp CFPCM and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERCM are Certification Marks owned by Financial Planning Standards Board Ltd. Institute of Financial Planning is the sole licensing authority for the marks in the United Kingdom, through agreement with FPSB.

Whilst we choose carefully the links listed above, we are not responsible for the accuracy or the content of external sites.

Tony Barber Financial Ltd is an Appointed Representative of Financial Ltd which is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Services Authority.
Company Registration Number - 5102278. FSA Number - 464539
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