Frankfurt am Main, November 25th, 2024 — EFFAS is proud to announce a landmark achievement for its Certified ESG Analyst (CESGA) qualification. The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has granted CESGA three modular exemptions under its Enhanced Competency Framework on Green and Sustainable Finance (ECF-GSF). These exemptions span both QF Level 4 (Modules 1 & 2) and Level 5 (Module 7), positioning CESGA as the only qualification in Hong Kong to achieve such a distinction.
This milestone highlights CESGA’s adherence to the highest international standards, solidifying its position as a global benchmark for excellence in green and sustainable finance education. The QF Level 5 recognition, equivalent to a bachelor’s degree, underscores the exceptional quality of CESGA’s curriculum, particularly in Green & Sustainable Investments (Module 7). Importantly, this recognition enables CESGA holders employed in HKMA-regulated banks to qualify seamlessly for the Associate Green Finance Professional (Product & Servicing) [AGFP(PS)] designation, provided they occupy relevant roles within authorized institutions.
Global Leadership in ESG Certification
EFFAS Chair Jesús López Zaballos expressed the significance of this achievement:
“This accomplishment underscores CESGA’s leadership in the ESG certification landscape. Since being listed on Hong Kong’s green talent subsidy list in December 2022, CESGA’s integration into the HKMA framework reaffirms its unique credibility. The tireless collaboration spearheaded by our Asia Representative, Anthony Cheung, and our Value-added Partner, SFRH, with extraordinary contributions from Serena Mak, has propelled CESGA to the forefront of green finance qualifications.”
EFFAS Deputy Chair Friedrich Mostboeck, reflecting on his participation in the Asian Banking Conference in Taipei, noted:
“As a CESGA holder, I firmly believe that its inclusion in the HKMA framework marks a transformative milestone for ESG professionals in the banking industry. By bridging global ESG standards with localized insights, CESGA equips banking practitioners with the knowledge and tools needed to confidently navigate the evolving challenges of sustainable finance and drive impactful change.”
Anthony Cheung, EFFAS Asia Representative, emphasized:
“This recognition is a significant endorsement not only for EFFAS but for the entire ESG and Sustainable Finance qualification framework in the Asia Pacific region. The rigorous evaluation process conducted by the HKMA before granting any modular exemptions makes this endorsement a hallmark of CESGA’s exceptional standards and relevance.”
A new Era for Green Finance Talent in Hong Kong
As a recognized leader in sustainable finance education, CESGA continues to shape the future of ESG-focused banking professionals. The HKMA’s validation underscores CESGA’s role in bridging the gap between global sustainability frameworks and localized financial markets, supporting the development of green finance talent in Hong Kong and beyond.
For detailed information about the CESGA qualification and its new modular exemptions, please visit the HKMA Guide to Enhanced Competency Framework on Green and Sustainable Finance.
The European Federation of Financial Analysts Societies (EFFAS is a Not-for-profit organisation set up in 1962 with 14 national member associations in Europe, representing more than 16,000 Financial analysts, Asset managers, pension fund managers, corporate finance specialists, risk managers, treasurers among many other professional profiles from the investment profession. EFFAS is a certification body for finance with over 24,400 certificate holders worldwide.
For any queries, please refer to:
Alvaro Wagener Diez | Marketing & Communications Manager
EFFAS e.V.
Sophienstraße 44, DE 60487 Frankfurt am Main.
a.wagener@effas.com
Phone: +49 69 98959519 – Fax: +49 69 98957529
website: www.effas.com
