What is the Designated Financial Services Advisor  (DFSA) designation?

The Designated Financial Services Advisor (DFSA) designation is a leading credential for financial advice in Canada. Used by Canada’s largest financial institutions, it ensures that financial advisors have the knowledge and skills to provide appropriate advice to address a client’s financial situation. 

The DFSA Professional Competency Profile provides an overview of the responsibilities, skills and knowledge that are unique to someone who holds the DFSA designation. It is the foundational document for the Designated Financial Services Advisor (DFSA) designation that describes the required competencies of professionals awarded the designation.

What is the Financial Advisory and Financial Planning Regulation in Canada?

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Ontario

In 2019, the Ontario government announced that it would introduce legislation to limit the use of the titles of “Financial Planner” and “Financial Advisor” in Ontario to individuals who have obtained a credential from a credentialing body.

The Personal Financial Planner (PFP®) designation offered by CSI is recognized and approved within this regulatory framework as a financial planning designation.

Saskatchewan

The Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority of Saskatchewan (FCAA or the Authority) is publishing for comment Proposed Regulations [2021-001] – The Financial Planners and Financial Advisors Regulations (the Proposed Regulations) under The Financial Planners and Financial Advisors Act (FPFAA). This legislation is intended to limit the use of the titles “Financial Planner” and “Financial Advisor.” It is still in the public comment phase.

New Brunswick

The Financial and Consumer Services Commission of New Brunswick (FCNB) is seeking public comment on potential approaches to the regulation of the titles “Financial Planner” and “Financial Advisor” in New Brunswick.

Quebec

The DFSA™ designation cannot be used in Quebec due to provincial regulations.