An unmanaged collection of securities whose overall performance is used as an indication of stock or bond market trends. An example of an index is the widely quoted Dow Jones Industrial Average (often referred to as the “DOW”). Another frequently reported index is the Standard & Poor’s 500 (often referred to as “the S&P”). The S&P, for instance, is merely a list of the largest 500 companies in the USA.
CFP® certification is a voluntary certification granted in the United States by Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. It is recognized in the United States and a number of other countries for its (1) high standard of professional education; (2) stringent code of conduct and standards of practice; and (3) ethical requirements that govern professional engagements with clients. Individuals who become certified are required to complete continuing education.