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CFA RESOURCE

CFA Glossary of Terms and Formulas

Use this glossary to search CFA terms, formulas, and finance concepts while you study. Browse alphabetically, search for a specific term, or review short definitions across the CFA Program.

This page is built for candidates preparing for CFA Level I, Level II, or Level III.

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A swap in which one party agrees to pay the total return on a security. Often used as a credit derivative, in which the underlying is a bond.

The standard deviation of the differences between a portfolio’s returns and its benchmark’s returns; a synonym of active risk. Also called tracking risk. Synonyms: Tracking risk

Tracking risk

Level III

The standard deviation of the differences between a portfolio’s returns and its benchmark’s returns; a synonym of active risk. Also called tracking error. Synonyms: Tracking error

Completion of a trade wherein purchased financial instruments are transferred to the buyer and the buyer transfers money to the seller.

COMMON QUESTIONS

FAQs About KeyPoint Learning's CFA Glossary

A CFA glossary is a reference list of terms, formulas, and finance concepts that appear across the CFA Program. It helps candidates review key ideas while studying for Level I, Level II, or Level III.

CFA Glossary

This glossary is designed to support candidates across the CFA Program. Where level information is available, terms can be labeled by CFA Level I, Level II, or Level III.

CFA Glossary

Yes, formula-related terms may be included in the glossary. For a more focused formula review, use the CFA Formula Sheet resource.

CFA Glossary

No. It is better to understand important terms in context than to memorize every definition by itself. Focus on how each concept works, where it appears in the curriculum, and how it may be tested.

CFA Glossary

You can explore KeyPoint Learning’s CFA resources for study planning, calculator guidance, formulas, GIPS Standards, and CFA Program information.

CFA Glossary
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