AMHERST, MASS, October 1, 2008 - The Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst Association® (CAIAA)-an independent, not-for-profit international organization that provides a charter program for professionals in alternative investments-has opened registration for the March 2009 CAIA Level I and Level II examinations.

Since its inception in 2002, more than 8000 individuals have enrolled in the CAIA program, the only professional financial designation for the alternatives industry, with the number of participants nearly doubling annually.  CAIA enrollees represent more than 80 countries and thousands of financial institutions, and include fund managers and administrators, investment advisors, consultants, security analysts, lawyers, accountants and educators.  The CAIA designation has quickly become the global hallmark of excellence in this rapidly growing field. 

"This year continues to present unprecedented challenges for the financial markets and only furthers the need for professionals to have a comprehensive understanding of not only their own specific areas of expertise, but of all investment areas," said Craig Asche, executive director of the CAIA Association.  "As recent events have highlighted far too well, the investment world has become more intertwined over time, which further demonstrates the relevance of the CAIA program for all global finance participants."

For more information about the CAIA program, exam enrollment, fees, dates and more, please visit www.caia.org. 

About The CAIA Association
The Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst Association® is an independent, not-for-profit global organization committed to education and professionalism in the field of alternative investments. Founded in 2002, the Association is the sponsoring body for the CAIA designation.  Recognized globally, the designation certifies one's mastery of the concepts, tools and practices essential for understanding alternative investments and promotes adherence to high standards of professional conduct.