Just over 2 years ago, I received the CAIA Association Scholarship Award to attempt the CAIA Charter. I am glad to have made the most out of it and gained a deeper understanding of this growing industry.
It’s hard to refute by now that returns in the next decade are going to be much lower than the last decade. In fact, some might even argue we are in a new regime which low rate is here to stay. Naturally, alternative investments have become the go to space to hunt for higher uncorrelated returns.
However, under this broad alts umbrella are many markedly different assets - such as real estate, hedge funds, commodities and managed futures, private equity, and credit derivatives - unique in their own way. Therefore, it is important to study the fine details of these securities.
I would strongly encourage anyone with an interest in alternative investments to explore the CAIA charter. For me, pursuing the CAIA Charter started off rather unintended, but I certainly completed the journey purposefully and am very pleased with the knowledge I gained.
About Han Zhong Liang
Zhong Liang is currently an Investment Strategist at Standard Chartered Global Chief Investment Office. In his role, he leads and renders timely and sound investment strategy, market commentaries and communication materials derived from Global Investment Committee decisions, SCB Research and team views on both macroeconomic developments and fixed income at an individual security level.
Prior to that, he was an Investment Specialist at HSBC, providing professional and comprehensive investment advisory services to assist HNW individuals in making prudent investment decisions.
Zhong Liang graduated from Nanyang Business School with a Bachelor of Business, Major in Banking & Finance. He was also elected as the Valedictorian of the Class of 2019 and delivered the valedictory speech on their behalf during the convocation ceremony. He was actively involved in faculty, sports club and hall activities while also excelling in his studies. Additionally, he had an extensive list of local and overseas internships in reputable financial institutions and consulting firms.