On the rising interest in fund management education due to Asia becoming wealthier at a startling rate, SMU Vice President (Business Development and External Relations) Associate Professor Annie Koh said she has indeed noticed a growth in interest over the past five years in this area, attributed to the growing numbers sitting for CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) and CAIA (Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst) examinations.  Associate Prof Koh also noticed an increase in the number of Asian universities offering masters programmes in finance. “But the fund management industry only sees formal qualification as a first step and on-the-job training is very much needed", she added. Highlighting the need for local knowledge, Associate Prof Koh explained that, "Without that customisation to understanding local investment regulations or local culture, no funds professional can add value for their investors."