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Time of India
2 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Finance analyst vs. chartered accountant: Which path is better for commerce graduates?
Finance analyst vs. chartered accountant F or students with a knack for numbers, business acumen, and curiosity about how companies grow, two career paths often stand out: Finance Analyst and Chartered Accountant (CA). While both roles revolve around financial systems and data, they lead in very different directions. One path dives deep into regulatory and tax compliance, the other focuses on forecasting, budgeting, and investment strategy. If you're weighing your options, here's a comprehensive look at how these careers compare across education, roles, salaries, and growth potential. Certification and academic demands Becoming a Chartered Accountant in India involves a well-defined but demanding pathway. The journey begins with clearing the CA Foundation exam, followed by CA Intermediate, three years of mandatory articleship, and finally the CA Final examination. The certification is governed by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) and is known for its low pass rate, often below 15%, which reflects the rigour of the program. In contrast, the route to becoming a Finance Analyst is more flexible. A Bachelor's degree in Commerce, Business Administration, Economics, or even Engineering can serve as a starting point. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Free P2,000 GCash eGift UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo While there's no single mandated certification, many finance professionals pursue the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation to deepen their credibility, especially in investment-focused roles. The CFA program, divided into three levels, typically takes 2.5 to 4 years to complete and is recognized globally. What you'll study and do on the job The CA curriculum is comprehensive and deeply rooted in Indian accounting standards, taxation laws, auditing practices, and corporate governance. The articleship period provides hands-on experience in taxation, statutory audits, and regulatory compliance. Once qualified, CAs often work in roles that require detailed financial scrutiny—whether it's auditing a company's books, filing tax returns, or managing compliance frameworks. Finance Analysts, on the other hand, deal with forecasting revenue, analysing budgets, assessing investment risks, and developing financial models to support business decisions. Their work is less about compliance and more about shaping a company's strategy through data-driven insights. Analysts use tools like Excel, Power BI, SQL, and increasingly, Python for automating complex financial models. While a CA might review historical financial data for accuracy, a finance analyst will use that data to predict what comes next. Career options and growth trajectories Chartered Accountants typically find opportunities in audit firms (including the Big Four), corporate finance departments, banks, government bodies, and as independent consultants. Over time, they can move into leadership roles such as Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Head of Internal Audit, or become partners in accounting firms. Finance Analysts are usually employed by banks, investment firms, multinational corporations, private equity firms, and startups. Depending on their expertise, they can grow into roles like Senior Financial Analyst, Investment Manager, Business Strategy Lead, or even VP of Finance. The career progression in finance often depends on a combination of performance, qualifications (such as CFA), and exposure to global financial markets. Salary expectations and market demand The financial rewards are strong in both fields, but the starting points differ. A newly qualified Chartered Accountant in India can expect to earn between ₹7–12 lakh per annum, with higher packages offered by top firms during campus placements. For those entering the workforce as Finance Analysts, the starting salary ranges from ₹4–7 lakh, depending on the company, city, and academic background. However, analysts with CFA Level II or III certification often earn ₹8–14 lakh, particularly in roles involving investment research, equity analysis, or global finance. It's important to note that the CFA is considered a more globally portable qualification, opening doors in international markets more easily than the India-specific CA designation. Work environment and life balance Work-life balance is a concern in both fields but varies by role and season. CAs, especially during tax filing seasons or audits, may face intense work hours and tight deadlines. Articleship, while essential for learning, can be demanding due to the dual burden of work and study. Finance Analysts often work in high-pressure environments with strict reporting timelines, especially in investment banking or consulting. However, the growing presence of tech-driven finance roles, including remote-friendly positions in fintech and global MNCs, has brought in more flexibility for analysts compared to traditional CA firms. Who should choose what? Your choice ultimately depends on your interest, career aspirations, and risk appetite. If you're someone who prefers structured learning, enjoys rules, policies, and deep financial accuracy, and is willing to take on one of India's most rigorous exams, CA is a clear path. It offers job security, a respected title, and long-term growth in core financial functions. If you're more inclined toward analysing trends, building models, and influencing strategic decisions, the Finance Analyst track may suit you better. It also allows for cross-sector movement and can offer greater international mobility, especially with certifications like the CFA. The bottom line Both Chartered Accountants and Finance Analysts play critical roles in the financial health of businesses—but their tools, focus areas, and career experiences are very different. In essence, a CA ensures a business stays compliant, while a Finance Analyst helps it grow. As industries evolve and the finance world becomes more tech-enabled, hybrid roles are also emerging. Many professionals are even combining the best of both worlds—pursuing a CA qualification and then upskilling with CFA or data analytics tools. For number lovers, either route offers a fulfilling and impactful career. The decision lies in choosing whether you want to audit the present or forecast the future. Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
News18
3 days ago
- Business
- News18
ICAI CA Topper 2025: Meet Vrinda Agarwal, Who Secured Rank 1 In CA Foundation Without Coaching
Last Updated: ICAI CA Topper 2025: Vrinda Agarwal secured the AIR 1 in CA Foundation, while her elder sister Tulsi achieved the first position in the district in CA Intermediate. Two sisters from Ghaziabad have achieved remarkable success in ICAI's CA Foundation and Intermediate examinations. Vrinda Agarwal, a resident of Rajnagar Extension, secured the All India No. 1 rank in CA Foundation, while her elder sister Tulsi achieved the first position in the district in CA Intermediate. Their father, Nitin Agarwal, is a tax advocate. The entire family, including their father Nitin Agarwal, is extremely happy with the outstanding achievements of both daughters. He shared that Vrinda began preparing for CA Foundation while she was in the 12th class. After her 12th class exams, she focused entirely on CA Foundation. Vrinda Agarwal, the CA Foundation topper, mentioned that she studied for about 7-8 hours daily, following the ICAI syllabus, and scored 90.5 per cent (362 marks out of 400). She did not rely on coaching for her preparation; instead, she utilised YouTube and other internet platforms, along with self-study. Her father also assisted her in her preparation. Vrinda, who passed the 12th commerce stream from Chhabildas School this year, achieved 98 per cent marks. Her elder sister Tulsi secured the first position in Ghaziabad district with 404 marks out of 600 in CA Inter. Tulsi had scored over 98 per cent in the 12th commerce stream last year. Both sisters credited their parents for their success and excellent preparation. According to the result statistics provided by ICAI, 82,662 candidates took the Foundation course exam, with 12,474 candidates passing, resulting in an overall pass rate of 15.09 per cent. Examining the gender breakdown, 43,389 male candidates appeared for the exam, of which 7,056 passed, achieving a pass rate of 16.26 percent. Similarly, 39,273 female candidates took the exam, with 5,418 passing, yielding a pass rate of 13.80 per cent. Yadnesh Rajesh Narkar from Mumbai scored 359 out of 400 marks, equating to 89.75 per cent, earning him the second rank nationwide. Shardul Shekhar Vichare from Thane scored 358 out of 400, achieving 89.5 per cent, and secured the third rank nationwide. view comments First Published: July 09, 2025, 17:35 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Indian Express
5 days ago
- Business
- Indian Express
CA Final results: With two in top 30, Ahmedabad makes state proud
The CA final examination results declared by The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) on Sunday brought joy for Gujarat as Priyal Pramod Jain and Parth Amar Shah — both Ahmedabad residents — secured 18th and 28th all-India ranks, respectively. The results of CA Intermediate and Foundation examinations were also declared by the institute on Sunday. The Intermediate results gave the state reasons to celebrate as well, with Kinjal Rajeshbhai Chaudhary and Yug Anilkumar Patel — again from Ahmedabad — securing the 29th and 38th, respectively. Priyal, a student of Nirma Vidyavihar and a graduate from R J Tibrewal Commerce College (Gujarat University), said she chose to become a CA, inspired by her father. 'I only hoped for a positive result, but securing the 18th rank made me happy beyond words.' Parth, who completed his schooling from Anand Niketan Satellite and pursued his graduation at GLS University, said his journey of becoming a CA started with a 'simple curiosity'. 'I joined the CA course simply because I liked it,' he said. 'I had not planned much, but now this spontaneous decision has become a proud achievement, and I couldn't be happier with how far I have come.' The CA Final, Intermediate, and Foundation examinations were held in May this year. At the Ahmedabad centre, the pass percentage stood at 19.35 per cent for CA Final, 10.62 per cent for CA Intermediate, and 13 per cent for CA Foundation. CA Nirav Agarwal, Chairman of the ICAI's Ahmedabad branch, said the city's performance showed an improvement in the Final exams, compared with November 2024. While Ahmedabad saw 23.28 per cent pass rate for Group 1, Group 2 recorded 20.10 per cent. However, Intermediate and Foundation results of Ahmedabad centre reflected a dip in the pass rate. Intermediate Group 1 saw 13.99 pass rate and Group 2 stood at 33.18 per cent. The Foundation exam recorded a 13 per cent pass rate, down from 23.16 per cent in January 2025. For Intermediate results, the national pass rate for both groups stood at 13.22 per cent, slightly down from 14.05 per cent in November 2024. Group 1 had a pass percentage of 14.67 per cent, while Group 2 stood at 21.51 per cent. Purushottam Khandelwal, Central Council Member at ICAI, said the national CA Final pass percentage (both groups) jumped to 18.75 per cent this year from 13.44 per cent in November 2024. Group 1 recorded a 22.38 per cent and Group 2 registered a 26.43 per cent pass figure. Out of 29,286 students who appeared for the exams, from both groups, 5,490 cleared them. For the Foundation exams, the national pass rate dropped to 15.9 per cent from 21.52 per cent in previous cycle.
Time of India
5 days ago
- General
- Time of India
CA Final result: 4 from Jaipur feature in top 50
Jaipur: Four students from Jaipur secured ranks in the top 50 in the CA Final, and six students secured ranks in the CA Intermediate, the results for which were released on Sunday. The ICAI Jaipur officially released the names of rank holders Monday. The top rankers for the CA Final include AIR 7 Harsh Garg, AIR 20 Narayan Gagar, AIR 32 Shruti Agarwal, and AIR 35 Muskan Jindal. In the CA Intermediate, AIR 3 Yamish Jain, AIR 26 Harsh Khandelwal and Akshita Khandelwal, AIR 28 Kanishka Jain, AIR 42 Paridhi Maheshwari, and AIR 44 Neha Soni are also from Jaipur. In the CA Foundation, Parth Amarnani from the city secured AIR 9 this year. With 486 out of 600, Harsh secured AIR 7 this year in his first attempt. Recalling his time in articleship, Harsh said that initially, he found it hard to cope with work and studies together and often faced downfalls. But with support from his family, he said he was able to keep himself motivated. "I studied for 10–12 hours a day after looking at my friends but then soon realised that it doesn't benefit me and instead leads to feeling low and unmotivated. I used to study for 7-8 hours, which was enough for me," he said. He said that he prepared through self-study and online coaching, focusing heavily on revisions and active recalls. "The key is to have an adequate amount of time for revision, as that is what helps you to remember all that you have learnt," he added. Jain, who secured AIR 3 in the CA Intermediate, said that his inspiration was his uncle, who cleared the exam at a very young age. He began his preparation last year, right after appearing for his foundation exam. "I started consistently preparing from January last year. Watching my uncle clear his CA when I was younger, I made up my mind early on that this is what I want to be," he said. His strategy for preparation, he said, was using the ABC Method – categorising questions based on his academic finesse. "Category A would comprise the best questions, category B would have questions I needed to revise, and the questions I was thorough with made up category C," said Jain.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
ICAI CA Foundation May 2025: Vrinda Aggarwal tops exam, A look at her inspiring journey
Vrinda Aggarwal has secured the top rank in the ICAI CA Foundation May 2025 examination, emerging as a formidable name in the Chartered Accountancy landscape. A government school graduate with a diverse background in the performing arts and literature, Aggarwal's success reflects a compelling blend of academic strength and co-curricular distinction. The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) declared the results for the May session earlier this week. While thousands appeared for the Foundation level exam, Aggarwal stood out with her exceptional performance, adding yet another milestone to her growing list of achievements. Government school student rises to the top A standout alumnus of Delhi's government school system, Vrinda Aggarwal was honoured by the Directorate of Education (DoE) for clinching the top zonal rank in Commerce, a testament to her early academic excellence. Her trajectory has only soared since then. In January 2025, she cleared both groups of the CA Intermediate exam in her very first attempt, a distinction achieved by only a select few in the country. Her journey challenges the prevailing perception that premier professional achievements are the domain of elite institutions. Aggarwal's rise underscores the shifting academic dynamics where students from public schools are not only competing but excelling in India's toughest professional arenas. A scholar and an artist Alongside her pursuit of Chartered Accountancy, Aggarwal holds a Visharad Purna in Kathak dance from Gandharva Mahavidyalaya, passed with distinction. Years of training in classical dance have shaped her discipline, focus, and creative expression, qualities that clearly echo in her academic success. Aggarwal is also a prolific writer, with over 50 original poems to her name. Her work has featured in anthologies, including the publication "Moons and Memories". Known for her flair in poetry, she continues to be active in the literary space, adding a powerful narrative voice to her already impressive profile. Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
