Alternative investment and financial instrument valuation resources and guidance

Welcome to the AICPA’s financial instrument and alternative investment valuation resource hub.

From fair value standards and frameworks to emerging trends, explore trusted insights related to valuation of complex financial instruments and alternative investments.


Complex Financial Instrument Valuation, by the numbers

CFI 1 CFI 2 CFI 3



Financial Instruments and Alternative Investments Resource Library

Guidance and insights

From generally accepted guidance, reference methodologies and techniques, regulatory updates, and industry information ranging from basic call options to derivatives embedded within complex capital structures, the AICPA has resources to help you navigate this area.

Guides and illustrations

Our reference guides provide widely used guidance and illustrations regarding the accounting for and valuation of portfolio company investments held by investment companies within the scope of FASB ASC 820, Fair Value Measurement, and ASC 946, Financial Services—Investment Companies.

AICPA Accounting and Valuation Guide Valuation of Portfolio Company Investments of Venture Capital and Private Equity Funds and Other Investment Companies

AICPA Accounting and Valuation Guide Valuation of Privately-Held-Company Equity Securities Issued as Compensation

Standards and Framework

The AICPA's SSVS and FIPF aim to improve the consistency and quality of all valuation practitioners in the specialized area of complex financial instruments and alternative investments.

The Certified in Valuation of Financial Instruments (CVFI®) credential

The CVFI credential — exclusively from the AICPA — demonstrates expertise in fair value estimation for financial instruments.

To qualify, candidates must:

  • Show relevant valuation experience

  • Complete a targeted education program

  • Pass a rigorous exam covering a body of knowledge that includes valuation, regulatory, risk, and industry topics.

The Certified in Valuation of Financial Instruments (CVFI®) credential

The CVFI credential — exclusively from the AICPA — demonstrates expertise in fair value estimation for financial instruments.

To qualify, candidates must:

  • Show relevant valuation experience

  • Complete a targeted education program

  • Pass a rigorous exam covering a body of knowledge that includes valuation, regulatory, risk, and industry topics.

The CVFI program was developed post-Global Financial Crisis by leading experts to standardize and elevate financial instrument valuation. Credential holders apply proven processes, professional judgment, and the AICPA FIPF best practices to deliver reliable, transparent valuations.

Whether you're an investment manager, controller, auditor, or valuation specialist, the CVFI credential sets you apart in this complex field.

Certified in the Valuation of Financial Instruments (CVFI) credential

Learn more about the CVFI credential

CVFI credential infographic

CVFI FAQ

CVFI credential body of knowledge

Applying for the CVFI credential

Courses, webcasts, and more

Our Valuation Services team continually collaborates with experts, regulators, and academic leaders to develop educational content that helps you stay sharp and compliant.

Educational offerings include:

• Interactive courses and certificates (minicertificates coming soon)

• Webcasts, podcasts, and conference sessions

• Best practice guides and emerging methodology insights

Courses, webcasts, and more

Our Valuation Services team continually collaborates with experts, regulators, and academic leaders to develop educational content that helps you stay sharp and compliant.

Educational offerings include:

• Interactive courses and certificates (minicertificates coming soon)

• Webcasts, podcasts, and conference sessions

• Best practice guides and emerging methodology insights

Featured episodes of the FVS Valuation Podcast

Featured episodes of the FVS Valuation Podcast

Past Portfolio Valuation Forums

Hosted by KPMG
June 28, 2023

Featured panelists from:

PIMCO
BDT & MSD Capital
Bessemer Ventures
First Republic Bank
Apollo Global

Hosted by Deloitte
June 12, 2024

Featured panelists from:

Vista Equity Partners
Turning Rock Partners
Deep Ocean Partners
Guggenheim Partners

Hosted by PwC
September 9, 2025

Featured panelists from:

Blackstone & Marsal
Bain Capital
Churchill Asset Management
Warburg Pincus
(And Others)

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