Latest news with #CIMA
IOL News
08-08-2025
- Business
- IOL News
The future of finance has arrived with the latest CIMA CGMA Professional Qualification upgrade
The upgraded CGMA Professional Qualification syllabus enables students to develop critical thinking skills from day 1, Image: Supplied Image: Supplied To succeed in a digitally enabled business world, finance professionals must not only possess sound technical accounting and finance skills but also be able to combine them with critical thinking, technology, and high-performance business partnering skills. This is the future of finance. The good news? The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) CGMA Professional Qualification has been upgraded to help finance professionals do just that. Even better, we're introducing skills most in demand by employers earlier in your learning journey—without increasing the difficulty of the exams. CIMA's commitment is to continuously evolve the syllabus, keeping you aligned with the latest professional standards and business practices. And there's no need to worry about disruptive changes. As it rolls out the 2026 syllabus or future upgrades, you won't be required to take additional modules or meet tight deadlines to complete your qualification. So why the upgrade? Just five years ago, most finance teams operated within a traditional pyramid structure: a broad base of entry-level roles narrowing toward senior leadership positions like Finance Director or CFO. But in 2019, its landmark Future of Finance: Reinventing finance for a digital world report predicted a technology driven shift that would fundamentally reshape this model. What CIMA didn't fully anticipate was the speed of this transformation. Fast forward to 2024. The world has changed—and so has the finance profession. CIMA's follow-up global report, Future of Finance 2.0: Re-defining finance for a sustainable world, published last year confirmed that transformation is well underway. Many finance functions are already leveraging AI to automate routine tasks, freeing up time for professionals to focus on higher-value activities like problem solving, analysis, decision support, and strategic recommendations. This evolution made the mission for the upgraded Chartered Global Management Accountant Professional Qualification (CGMA Professional Qualification) clear: to accelerate the development of high-performing finance business partners. That means embedding critical thinking skills earlier in the learning journey and expanding the syllabus to cover areas such as sustainability and generative AI (GenAI). Developed by finance professionals for finance professionals, the CGMA Professional Qualification equips learners with the knowledge and capabilities to drive strategy, support decision-making, and deliver value across both private and public sectors. It opens doors to countless career opportunities for CGMA designation holders. In this new era, finance is no longer just about reporting the numbers. It's about shaping the future. Finance roles are being refined to meet the future demands of business and economies. Finance professionals need to be equipped with the right technical and critical thinking skills, a strong understanding of their organisation, and the ability to analyse, assess, influence and lead. They must be capable of providing the insights their organisations need to craft and successfully execute their strategies. The CIMA Qualification Framework – accelerating capabilities for the future of finance The CGMA Professional Qualification consists of three levels - Operational, Management, and Strategic levels – culminating in a Case Study business simulation exam. The syllabus is a blend of accounting, finance, and management content essential business leadership. It covers areas such as strategy, performance and financial management, resource allocation, corporate reporting, risk management and sustainability. The qualification prepares individuals for diverse roles and levels across various sectors, including careers in finance, marketing, IT, operations, sustainability and business management. To keep pace with the rapid transformation of business, the 2026 upgrade to the CGMA Professional Qualification introduces a bold new professional educational approach to developing the skills modern finance professionals need. CIMA's moved beyond the traditional, linear model of learning. Instead, it's adopted a spiral curriculum—a dynamic framework that builds and reinforces interrelated skills at every stage of the qualification. This means students don't simply accumulate knowledge level by level—they revisit and deepen their ability to solve increasingly complex business problems and add value as they progress. From day one, learners begin developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills—no longer waiting until the final stages of their qualification. The result? They're equipped to tackle real-world business challenges early in their journey and deliver meaningful value to their employers from the outset What does this mean in practice? At the heart of the 2026 CGMA syllabus upgrade is a shift in focus—from simply acquiring knowledge to demonstrating real-world competencies. The syllabus is now structured around the roles and responsibilities found in today's modern finance functions, ensuring that what students learn directly aligns with what employers need. In a world where information is readily accessible, technical knowledge alone is no longer a differentiator. What sets finance professionals apart is their ability to apply that knowledge—accurately, effectively, and strategically. This is where true professional value is created. Today's finance leaders must become T-shaped professionals—combining deep technical expertise with a broad set of complementary skills such as communication, collaboration, and critical thinking. The T-shaped finance professional, Image: Supplied Image: Supplied One of the most powerful tools in this transformation is CIMA's Case Study exams. These are not theoretical exercises—they're grounded in real world job roles and responsibilities across all levels of an organisation. Students are challenged to solve real-world business problems, starting with well-defined scenarios at the Operational level and progressing to increasingly complex and ambiguous challenges at the Management and Strategic levels. Through this problem-based learning approach, students develop essential skills like critical thinking, decision-making, and finance business partnering. They learn to solve problems through practical simulations, preparing them to deliver value from day one—and to grow into the strategic finance leaders of tomorrow What will you learn and what is new? For those unfamiliar with the it, the CGMA syllabus consists of three levels, compromising of nine subjects organised across three pillars. These levels provide a scaffolded approach to qualification progression, building students' knowledge and technical skills as they advance. Each level introduces increasingly complex problems and scenarios, helping students develop the power skills necessary for professional success. CIMA's redrawn the CGMA Professional Qualification to reflect the changing roles of finance professionals, Image: Supplied Image: Supplied This structure aligns learning and Case Study business simulation exams at the Operational, Management, and Strategic levels to roles that reflect the shape and evolution of the modern finance function. The Operational level focuses on the short term and the implementation of decisions. Students learn to work collaboratively across the organisation and use relevant data and technology to translate medium-term decisions into actionable short-term plans. The Management level focuses on translating long-term decisions into medium-term plans. Students develop the ability to manage performance, allocate resources, monitor and report on decision implementation, and prepare and interpret financial statements to evaluate performance, using data and relevant technology throughout. Students develop the ability to manage performance, allocate resources, monitor and report on decision implementation, and prepare and interpret financial statements to evaluate performance, using data and relevant technology throughout The Strategic level focuses on long-term strategic decision-making that drives value creation. Students will be able to support organisational leaders to craft strategy, source financing to implement the strategy, perform valuations, and manage the risks that might prevent the successful implementation of strategy. The three pillars represent specific areas of knowledge. The content of each pillar develops as students move up the qualification. The three pillars are interlinked to provide a coherent body of knowledge that will equip successful students with the competencies they require. The Enterprise pillar Focuses on the role of the finance function and its interaction with the wider organisation through the use of data and technology. It explores business models, as well as the management of people and projects to achieve organisational goals. The pillar also addresses the formulation and effective implementation of strategy. The Performance pillar applies the tools and techniques of management accounting and risk management assess the feasibility of strategy and monitor its execution. Students learn how to apply cost understanding to budgeting, pricing, capital expenditure decisions, cost control, and performance management. Digital costing is introduced alongside traditional costing techniques and cost management is expanded to reflect its growing importance in an increasingly competitive environment for organisations. Students also progressively develop the ability to identify, classify, and evaluate risk, including enterprise, strategic, and cyber risks and manage them primarily through internal controls. The Financial pillar focus is the financial accounting and reporting obligations of the organisation. This includes an understanding of the regulatory framework and external reporting requirements, including integrated reporting. The ability to construct and evaluate complex financial statements, including those relating to group accounts to show the financial position and performance of an organisation is essential. The pillar also includes principles of taxation, the tax implications of financing decisions, and the formulation of financial strategy linking to strategy development in the Enterprise Pillar and risk assessment in the Performance Pillar. Each pillar's subjects follow a structured learning path from Operational to Strategic level, ensuring a continuous and practical development of knowledge, tools, and capabilities aligned with the evolving demands of the finance profession. What's new for 2026? Starting with the May 2026 Case Study exams, the CGMA Professional Qualification has been enhanced to reflect the evolving demands of the finance profession, with a stronger emphasis on sustainability and technology. —particularly in sustainability and technology. Key updates include: Expanded sustainability content : All subjects now feature extended coverage of sustainability topics, such as environmental costing, green financing, and the latest IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards (S1 & S2). Enhanced technology focus : Building on existing tech content, the syllabus now incorporates GenAI and explores how AI-driven transformation is redefining working practices across finance functions. Evolved Case Study exams : The Case Study business simulation exams have been updated to reflect real-world challenges, including current and emerging issues particularly those related to sustainable business practices. These simulations are designed to assess students' ability to apply their knowledge in dynamic, practical scenarios that mirror the complexities of modern finance roles. To help students and educators navigate these changes, CIMA's provided a summary table below outlining the key enhancements and clarifying what's expected at each level of assessment. Flexible routes to earning the CGMA designation CIMA is not only leading the future of finance through its upgraded CGMA syllabus—it's also reimagining how students can become CGMA designation holders. Today, there are four flexible routes, each designed to suit different learning styles, career stages, and levels of experience: Traditional exam route This well-established path combines structured objective tests with Case Study exams, allowing students to progress at their own pace. It's ideal for those who prefer a self-directed, exam-focused approach. CGMA Finance Leadership Program Launched in the UK in 2023, the CGMA Finance Leadership Program offers a digital-first, subscription-based learning experience. It features continuous assessment and Case Study exams, making it perfect for learners who thrive in a more flexible, interactive environment. Experiential routes for experienced professionals For seasoned finance professionals, CIMA offers tailored pathways through the Professional Gateway, Senior Executive, and CFO Programmes. These routes recognise prior experience and focus on completing Case Study exams to earn the CGMA designation. Apprenticeship pathways We also support Level 4 and Level 7 Apprenticeships, delivered in partnership with employers and training providers. These programmes allow students to earn while they learn, gaining practical experience on their journey to becoming Chartered Global Management Accountants. CGMA is the future of finance Since its founding in 1919, CIMA has been at the forefront of advancing management accounting. With its singular focus on finance and business, the CGMA Professional Qualification continues to prepare future-ready professionals to meet the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly evolving financial landscape.
Yahoo
08-08-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
CIMA, MIA extend MoU to enhance growth in Malaysia
The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) and the Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA) have extended their memorandum of understanding (MoU) for an additional three years. The latest MoU aims at advancing accounting and finance talent growth in Malaysia. Under the agreement, MIA members with at least six years of relevant professional experience can pursue CIMA membership through a fast-track route. This involves passing the CGMA Strategic Case Study exam and fulfilling the necessary practical experience criteria. CIMA Southeast Asia regional director Saritha Subramaniam said: 'We are proud to renew our Memorandum of Understanding with MIA, reaffirming our shared commitment to advancing the accounting and finance profession in Malaysia and beyond. 'Our long-standing collaboration underscores our mutual commitment to driving professional excellence, delivering impactful initiatives to develop future-ready talent, and fostering global connectivity.' The collaboration has historically supported career advancement for professionals in accounting, finance, and business, while providing Malaysian employers with access to a wider, globally competitive talent pool. MIA membership operations director Ho Foong Chin said: 'This collaboration with CIMA is a gateway to the CGMA designation, as it provides MIA members with a well-defined pathway to specialise in management accounting and business strategy, while reinforcing our commitment to their professional advancement and long-term growth.' Earlier in August 2025, CIMA and ICAEW endorsed the UK Government's small business plan, which aims to strengthen fundamentals by enacting laws to stop late payments, costing the UK economy £11bn annually, and also reducing regulatory costs by 25%. "CIMA, MIA extend MoU to enhance growth in Malaysia" was originally created and published by The Accountant, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
01-08-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
ICAEW and CIMA welcome UK Government's small business plan
The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) have expressed their support for the small business plan recently unveiled by the UK Government. The plan includes measures to fix fundamentals by legislating to end late payments, which cost the UK economy £11bn per year, and cutting regulatory costs by 25%. It also aims to unlock access to finance by expanding start-up loans to offer 69,000 new businesses finance and mentoring, boosting access to finance through the British Business Bank's Growth Guarantee Scheme and increasing the capacity of the ENABLE programme by £3bn to £5bn. Commenting on the plan, CIMA management accounting chief executive Andrew Harding said: 'The small business plan published today is a welcome addition to the wider UK Industrial Strategy, and incorporates numerous measures that CIMA has consistently advocated for on behalf of our members and the SMEs [small and medium-sized enterprises] they work for and assist. 'To unlock the full growth potential of the SME sector, it is vital that we establish clear and measurable indicators of success. The next phase must involve translating this strategy into actionable, multi-year business plans that are realistic, properly resourced and aligned with the UK's Industrial Strategy. These plans should be underpinned by metrics that capture the distinct characteristics and contributions of SMEs to the wider economy.' Additionally, the strategy will back the everyday economy through community funding for up to 350 places and business rate reforms including permanently lower business rates multipliers for high street retail, hospitality and leisure properties. The plan also focuses on future-proofing business skills through technology adoption and investing £1.2bn in skills and apprenticeships. Furthermore, it aims to open opportunities through a new Business Growth Service and by expanding UK Export Finance's capacity by £20bn to £80bn. ICAEW chief executive Alan Vallance stated: 'Small businesses are key to growth, and it is important that they can operate in the best environment to propel them into the business stars of the future, creating more growth, employment and prosperity for all parts of the UK. 'Chartered accountants are central to this story. As trusted business advisers, they provide expertise and acumen to allow small businesses to thrive and scale up, and often set up small businesses of their own. 'The publication of the Small Business Strategy is an important development to help small businesses realise their potential. With its ambition on entrepreneurship, business advice, late payments and export potential, as well as its close links to the UK Modern Industrial Strategy and Professional and Business Services Sector Plan, it is clear that chartered accountants will make a strong contribution to its success." "ICAEW and CIMA welcome UK Government's small business plan " was originally created and published by The Accountant, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Associated Press
29-07-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
The Investments & Wealth Institute Unveils Keynote Speakers for 2025 Strategy Forum in NYC, November 17-18, 2025
DENVER, CO / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / The Investments & Wealth Institute ('the Institute'), the premier professional association, education provider, and standards body for financial advisors and wealth managers, today announced the keynote speakers for its 2025 Strategy Forum, taking place November 17-18, 2025, at the New York Marriott Marquis. The Institute's Strategy Forum is tailored for advanced practitioners focused on serving high-net-worth clients at the highest level. Built on the theme Building Resilient Portfolios During Volatile Times, this two-day event offers a focused, high-impact environment. It is designed not for passive listening, but for practical insight and strategic exchange among peers. Attendees can expect a blend of academic rigor, applied learning, and curated peer connection. This year's program features a dynamic lineup of world-renowned thought leaders and academic experts delivering cutting-edge insights in behavioral finance, portfolio construction, and high-net-worth client strategy. Confirmed keynote speakers include: 'Strategy Forum is designed for advisors who want to think more critically, lead more confidently, and stay ahead of what's shaping the future of wealth management,' said Sean Walters, CEO at the Investments & Wealth Institute. 'What makes this event stand out is the depth of dialogue and the caliber of the people in the room. It's not just about hearing from experts; it's about exchanging ideas with fellow practitioners who are operating at the top of their field.' While attendees can earn more than 25 hours of premier continuing education (CE) credit by combining in person and archived participation, the event is purposefully built to go beyond credit accumulation. Strategy Forum delivers strategic content through real-world case discussions, hands-on workshops, and peer-led exchanges. Average AUM of the 2024 advisor attendee was consistent with the IWI member average, or $601 million (CEG Insights member profile, 2025). The number of sponsors is capped at one firm for every 20 attendees to maximize the networking for both firms and individuals. Attendees can expect to leave with implementable strategies and lasting professional connections. Early-bird registration is open through October 10, 2025. For more information and to register, visit Strategy Forum 2025. About the Investments & Wealth Institute Founded in 1985, Investments & Wealth Institute is the premier professional membership association, education provider, and credentialing body for financial service professionals and advisors serving high-net-worth clients. Through its award-winning events, publications, courses, and acclaimed certifications - Certified Investment Management Analyst® (CIMA®), Certified Private Wealth Advisor® (CPWA®), and Retirement Management Advisor® (RMA®) certifications - the Institute delivers Ivy League-quality, highly-practical education to more than 30,000 practitioners annually in over 40 countries. Members of the Institute embrace excellence and ethics in applying a broad set of knowledge and skills in their daily work with clients. Its dynamic community includes some of the industry's most successful investment consultants, advanced financial planners, and institutional asset managers, all committed to excellence, ethics, and continuous professional growth. MEDIA CONTACT: Joe Collins River Communications 50 South Buckhout Street, Suite G104 Irvington, NY 10533 Tel: 914.686.5599 Cell: 914.582.4523 [email protected] SOURCE: Investments & Wealth Institute press release
Yahoo
23-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
AICPA and CIMA unveil new resilience toolkit for finance leaders
The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) have launched a Business Resilience Toolkit. The resource is designed to help finance professionals and business leaders navigate the complexities of the current economic landscape. The launch comes at a time when businesses are facing various challenges including fluctuating economic conditions, geopolitical strife and technological disruptions. The toolkit provides a suite of resources that includes frameworks, actionable tools and questions designed to prompt deeper analysis. These materials are intended to assist organisations in three primary areas: scanning the external environment for potential risks; assessing the impact of economic changes on their operations; and adjusting strategies to remain robust in the face of uncertainty, while also identifying new opportunities for growth. The toolkit addresses several key themes such as comprehending economic and policy risks, integrated thinking within organisations, tracking critical performance drivers, and enabling a swift and informed response to changes. The toolkit insights are also applicable to business leaders, enabling them to evaluate the repercussions of market conditions on their company's strategy. AICPA and CIMA business growth & engagement EVP Tom Hood said: 'With record numbers of businesses failing or under financial pressure, access to strong financial management expertise can make the difference between survival and failure. Financial business partnering is essential to navigating uncertainty. 'The Business Resilience Toolkit equips accounting and finance professionals to act as strategic advisors and critical business partners.' Recently, the AICPA reported that 32% of Americans are potentially unprepared for financial disruptions that could result from natural disasters. "AICPA and CIMA unveil new resilience toolkit for finance leaders " was originally created and published by The Accountant, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
