Which statement about the CFA designation and its use is most consistent with CFA Institute standards?

• A. CFA charterholders must satisfy membership requirements to continue using the designation.
• B. The CFA designation is globally recognized, which is why I use it as part of my firm's name.
• C. Individuals who have completed the CFA Program have the right to use the CFA designation.
• D. The CFA designation does not require ongoing work experience to maintain.

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is that the CFA designation is a protected credential that can be used only by those who remain current CFA Institute members in good standing. Earning the charter requires passing the program and meeting work experience criteria, but to continue using the designation you must satisfy membership requirements, keep your dues paid, and adhere to the CFA Institute Code and Standards. If membership lapses or you don’t meet the standards, you lose the right to use the designation.

That’s why the statement about continuing to satisfy membership requirements to use the designation is the best fit. The other points don’t align with CFA Institute policy: using the designation as part of a firm’s name is a branding issue and isn’t allowed, merely completing the program does not grant ongoing usage rights without current membership, and maintenance isn’t about a separate ongoing work-experience requirement—it's about staying in good standing as a member.