CISI (UK) ALIGNED CERTIFICATION

Global Securities Operations

A comprehensive program equipping learners with a deep understanding of global financial markets, securities trading, custody, and settlement systems.

Course Details
Mode

Online / Hybrid

Assessment

1-hour CISI online examination with 50 multiple-choice questions

Overview

The Global Securities Operations program, offered in collaboration with the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI, UK) , equips learners with a deep understanding of global financial markets, securities trading, custody, and settlement systems. This course is designed for aspiring professionals in investment banking operations, fund administration, and global custody services.

Objective of the Program

To ensure learners acquire the knowledge and practical understanding of global securities services, market participants, and post-trade operations relevant to investment and financial institutions. The program aligns with international standards and prepares candidates for operational excellence in the financial services industry.

Global Securities Operations

Examination Specification

The 1-hour exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions distributed as follows:

12
Element 1: Securities
10
Element 2: Main Industry Participants
10
Element 3: Settlement Characteristics
10
Element 4: Other Investor Services
3
Element 5: Aspects of Taxation
5
Element 6: Risk
50
Total Questions

Program Structure

The syllabus is divided into six key elements, each focusing on a vital aspect of global securities operations.

Element 1: Securities

Covers ordinary/preference shares, bonds, fixed-income, Depositary Receipts (ADRs, GDRs), warrants, and derivatives.Also includes understanding of equity/bond markets, trading principles, and settlement timelines.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Gain a solid foundation in securities types and valuation
  • Understand global identification systems (ISIN, CUSIP, SEDOL)

Element 2: Main Industry Participants

Explores key players like institutional investors, brokers, custodians, depositories (ICSDS/CSDs), Euroclear, Clearstream, and T2S systems. Covers communication standards (SWIFT, FIX) and the role of FinTech.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Understand the role and functions of custodians and depositories
  • Analyze the technology supporting global financial operations

Element 3: Settlement Characteristics

Focuses on pre-settlement, settlement, and failed settlement processes. [cite: 29] Covers clearing via CCPs, [cite: 30] payment systems (TARGET2, CHAPS, CLS, Fedwire), [cite: 31] DvP, netting, reconciliation, [cite: 32] and the impact of DLT. [cite: 33]

Learning Outcomes:

  • Ability to analyze end-to-end trade lifecycle
  • Manage settlement risks and ensure operational accuracy

Element 4: Other Investor Services

Covers post-settlement services like safekeeping of client assets, nominee structures, corporate actions (dividends, mergers), cash management, securities lending, and ESG integration.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Develop knowledge of asset protection and cash management
  • Understand client servicing within global operations

Element 5: Aspects of Taxation

Introduces taxation in cross-border trading, including income/capital gains tax, Withholding Tax (WHT), double taxation treaties (DTTs), and FATCA/CRS compliance.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Understand global taxation frameworks
  • Analyze operational implications for securities services
           

Element 6: Risk

Focuses on risk management and compliance, covering risk categories (credit, market, operational), mitigation through reconciliation, ISAE 3402/SSAE 16 reports, and regulatory frameworks.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Identify, assess, and manage operational risks
  • Ensure compliance within financial environments

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program can pursue roles in:

  • Investment Banking Operations
  • Fund Administration
  • Securities Settlement and Custody Services
  • Risk and Compliance Functions
  •                          
  • Global Custodian Banks and Depositories

Key Benefits

  • Globally recognized CISI certification
  • Practical understanding of end-to-end trade lifecycle
  • Exposure to international settlement systems and regulations
  • Ideal foundation for financial operations and back-office roles

Ready to Master Global Securities Operations?

Take the next step in your career with a globally recognized certification. Enroll today and gain the skills to excel in the financial industry.

Enroll Now