The Institute of Global Macro & Portfolio Management is an academic institution that provides portfolio management related education to students, graduates and working professionals. The mission at IGM is to train individuals to outperform in the financial markets and establish completely new standards for institutions and individuals.
The organisation puts candidates through a rigorous six-level structured program that takes more than 1,000 hours to complete over an average of two years, with the ultimate goal of receiving their highest honours, the IGM charter. The institution then distributes candidate portfolios to partners such as hedge funds, mutual funds, and proprietary funds in order to assist IGM students in obtaining employment contracts. So, given the fees and time commitment required, is the IGM program really worth it, and what are the benefits? The answer is determined by a variety of factors, including personal circumstances, career goals, and what you make of it. So, let's take a look at these variables.
Career Goals
The IGM award is both a signalling tool and a quality indicator. Having said that, the credibility of this qualification will be respected only by a subset of the finance sector, not by all. IGM works with buy-side firms that consistently generate alpha, so all strategies taught to candidates are supported by track records. The award will be especially valuable in asset management and equity research. Candidates should review the IGM career paths guide to gain a thorough understanding of the job opportunities available with this qualification.
Career Stage
95 percent of candidates who enrol on to the program are between the ages of 20 and 30, with the remaining 5 percent falling between the ages of 30-35. It is clear that the best return on investment is at the junior to mid-level level. This is most likely due to the ability to devote the necessary study time to pass each level. The IGM program designation is most useful during or after university, but having at least one year of initial finance work experience can be beneficial. The experience gained from the IGM program will give candidates more confidence and credibility as they advance up the career ladder to the mid-manager level, where job promotions are more important.
Career Switch
Improving soft skills, extensive networking, and intense job hunting, which IGM supports applicants with during their level five training, is the most compelling reason for individuals to make a career transition and complete the program. IGM instantly connects its students with reputable institutions, increasing the likelihood of a career shift. It is crucial to emphasise that the IGM charter will not revolutionise a person's career, but it will provide them an advantage. If a candidate is looking for a career shift, the IGM qualification might help demonstrate academic prowess.
Knowledge
The IGM program does necessitate a significant amount of initial effort. Furthermore, there is no guarantee of return. The IGM program, on the other hand, covers masters-level finance knowledge, which every candidate will remember. A commitment of 1,000+ hours over a two-year period is not for the faint of heart. However, for some people, the opportunity to become an alpha-generating portfolio manager, regardless of whether or not they receive a job offer, is well worth the time. If candidates are unwilling to put in the time and effort, the IGM program will not be a good fit. There aren't many drawbacks to receiving the IGM award. Individuals that are interested can take part in the enrolment exam which would give a good gauge of the suitability of the program..
Salary
The financial benefits of taking the IGM exam are apparent, and applicants do not need to wait until they obtain full honors. Candidates who passed level two experienced an increase in demand from public proprietary funds due to their ability to make sound investment decisions, 16% of candidates received job possibilities from financial publications. Furthermore, after completing level three, 90% of candidates felt confident enough to invest their own discretionary money in the financial markets.
Alternative Options
It is also crucial to note that, while there are limited downside risks associated with the IGM program, candidates may be able to fulfill their objectives without this charter. Individuals may wish to thrive in their current position or to go through prolonged interviewing till they land their dream job. It is all feasible; IGM has established a framework that allows candidates to obtain a contract more easily through their partners; but, a commitment must be made. Visit the IGM website for additional information on the program.
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