IIM Bangalore Introduces Certificate Programme in Personal Finance and Wealth Advisory

The Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB) has announced the launch of a Certificate Programme on Personal Finance and Wealth Advisory (PFWA), in collaboration with FPSB India, the Indian arm of the global Financial Planning Standards Board.

This programme will be offered through IIMB's Centre for Capital Markets and Risk Management (CCMRM) as part of its Executive Education portfolio. The initiative aims to blend academic learning with recognized financial planning standards and has received formal accreditation from FPSB India.

Registrations are currently open, with classes set to commence in March 2026.

Concentration on Applied Financial Planning

The PFWA programme is tailored to meet the increasing demand for structured training in personal finance and wealth advisory, particularly as more retail investors enter the financial markets and financial products grow more intricate.

The curriculum integrates theoretical foundations with hands-on experience, covering essential topics such as microeconomics, business decision-making, and modern financial advisory strategies. Participants will also utilize market tools and data platforms, including Bloomberg datasets, to enhance their practical financial analysis and client advisory skills.

The launch event featured senior programme directors from IIMB, members of the Council of Financial Planners, and representatives from FPSB India, who officially accredited the programme.

Dr. Aishwarya Krishna, a Research Consultant at CCMRM, explained that the programme is designed to align with academic standards while addressing the evolving needs of the industry, especially in a financial environment shaped by regulatory changes and market fluctuations.

Career Opportunities and Credentials

Participants who complete the PFWA programme will gain IIM Bangalore Executive Education Programme (EEP) alumni status. Moreover, they may qualify for a fast-track route to the globally recognized CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER certification, contingent on FPSB India’s guidelines.

FPSB India highlighted that this partnership is part of its broader strategy to collaborate with leading educational institutions to strengthen the financial planning education landscape in India. Research from 2023 indicates that professionals holding the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER certification often see increased client bases and earning potential, particularly in the early years following certification.

The Importance of the Programme

As Indian households increasingly seek professional advice on savings, investments, and long-term financial strategies, the demand for trained and ethically responsible advisors has surged. Programmes that merge academic rigor with internationally benchmarked standards are becoming vital in professionalizing the sector and fostering investor trust.