Course Outline

Module 1 - Foundations in Financial Planning (AFP^CM)

The first module is a self-contained course (also referred to as the AFP^CM Certification Program), covering a broad range of personal financial topics that form the foundation of the career of any financial services professional. The module is comprehensive and provides a complete overview of the financial/wealth planning process, a review of all the financial products and instruments, as well as a review of the legal and ethical and regulatory issues effecting financial planning in Singapore. Upon successful completion of the course, students are eligible to earn the AFP^CM certification whilst continuing on with the remaining modules leading to the CFP^CM certification.

Module 2 - Risk Management and Insurance Planning

The transfer of risk through the use of insurance is a principal method of handing risk exposures. This module examines the principles of risk management and insurance to identify a client's risk exposures and to select appropriate risk management techniques. The module reviews insurance contracts pertaining to both life and general products, and provides practical insurance checklists. Analysis of medical disability and life insurance needs and methods of determining products best suited to client's needs are also examined.

Module 3 - Tax Planning and Estate Planning

Taxes can affect various financial decisions and having knowledge of tax laws and related issues will greatly enhance the effectiveness of a financial/wealth planner, This module aims to increase a student's knowledge and skills in the area of tax planning, by providing an overview of the major components of tax. Estate Planning is a critical element of a complete financial plan and students are introduced to the process of developing an estate plan.

Module 4 - Investment Planning

Having the knowledge to evaluate and choose the right investments is basic to the implementation of a sound financial plan. This module reviews all categories of investments, client assessment techniques, economic factors, risk and return analysis, valuation methods, asset allocation techniques and portfolio management and performance evaluation methods.

Module 5 - Retirement Planning

As Singapore's population ages, it is critical that financial service professionals know how to advise clients properly to achieve a secure retirement. This module teaches retirement needs analysis techniques and the process to be used when developing a retirement plan. The Central Provident Fund (CPF) and other schemes will be reviewed.

Module 6 - Financial Plan Construction and Professional Responsibility

This final module builds upon the earlier modules and integrates all aspects of personal finance that are required for constructing a comprehensive financial plan. Students will learn how to gather and analyze client data, develop, recommend and implement appropriate strategies, and finally the important aspects related to the ongoing assessment of financial plans. A review of the legal, ethical and regulatory issues affecting financial/wealth planners will also be covered.