* Price covers the $6 IAR CE reporting fee.

Course Description

This course on Asset Allocation delves into the strategic distribution of investments across various asset classes to optimize risk and return. Participants will explore the fundamentals of equities, fixed income, real estate, and alternative investments, learning how to tailor asset mixes to individual financial goals and risk tolerances. Through a combination of theoretical insights and practical strategies, the course covers the dynamics of strategic, tactical, and dynamic asset allocation, offering the tools to build diversified portfolios. Ideal for financial advisers aiming to refine their asset allocation strategies, this course equips participants with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of modern investment landscapes effectively.

Our course is designed as a text-based, self-paced learning experience. You have the flexibility to start, pause, and resume the course at your convenience without the need to adhere to a specific schedule. This format allows you to integrate your learning seamlessly into your busy schedule, ensuring you can proceed at a pace that suits your individual needs.


Difficulty Level: Foundational

IAR CE: 2 credits in Products and Practices

CFP CE: 2 hours in General CE


Learning Objectives

Upon completing this course, participants will be able to:

  • Articulate the Fundamental Concepts of Asset Allocation: Clearly define asset allocation and explain its critical role in achieving diversified investment portfolios.
  • Develop Asset Allocation Strategies: Construct and implement strategic, tactical, and dynamic asset allocation models tailored to different investor profiles and market conditions.
  • Apply Advanced Asset Allocation Models: Utilize Modern Portfolio Theory (MPT), the Efficient Frontier, and the Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM) to inform investment decisions.
  • Integrate Globalization Effects into Asset Allocation: Assess and incorporate international investments into asset allocation strategies to exploit global diversification benefits.
  • Incorporate Behavioral Finance Insights: Recognize and mitigate the impact of psychological biases on investment decisions to improve financial outcomes.
  • Employ Sustainable Investment Practices: Apply ESG criteria in investment selection to align with sustainable and responsible investing principles.
  • Leverage Technological Advancements: Utilize robo-advisors and AI to enhance asset allocation decisions and portfolio management.


Course curriculum

    1. Course Instructions

    2. About This Course

    3. Overview of Asset Allocation

    4. Objectives of the Course

    1. Definition and Purpose

    2. Asset Classes: Introduction

    3. Asset Classes: Types of Equities

    4. Asset Class: International Equities

    5. Asset Classes: Types of Fixed Income Assets

    6. Asset Classes: Real Estate Investments

    7. Asset Classes: Alternative Investments

    8. Risk vs. Reward

    9. Investment Risks

    10. Quiz: Module 1 - Fundamentals of Asset Allocation

    1. Strategic Asset Allocation

    2. Tactical Asset Allocation

    3. Dynamic Asset Allocation

    4. Models and Theories

    5. Quiz: Module 2 - Asset Allocation Strategies

    1. Portfolio Construction

    2. Define Investment Objectives and Risk Tolerance

    3. Select Asset Classes

    4. Determine Strategic Asset Allocation

    5. Choose Individual Investments

    6. Rebalancing

    7. Risk Management

    8. Quiz: Module 3 - Implementing Asset Allocation in Portfolio Management

    1. Impact of Globalization

    2. Behavioral Finance

    3. Sustainable and Responsible Investing

    4. Technological Advancements

    5. Quiz: Module 4 - Current Trends and Advanced Topics in Asset Allocation

    1. Summary of Key Takeaways from the Course

    2. Further Resources and Reading

    3. Course Survey

About this course

  • $19.90
  • 36 lessons
  • IAR CE 2 Hours Products and Practice
  • $6 IAR CE reporting fee included

Course Completion Outcomes

As a result of completing this course, participants will:

  • Possess a Comprehensive Understanding of Asset Allocation: Have a well-rounded grasp of various asset allocation strategies and the ability to apply them effectively.
  • Be Equipped to Manage Diverse Portfolios: Acquire the skills necessary to construct, manage, and adjust diversified portfolios across different asset classes and investment environments.
  • Be Prepared to Navigate Global Investment Landscapes: Gain insights into the influence of global economic trends on asset allocation, enhancing their ability to manage international investment exposure.
  • Be Capable of Making Informed Ethical Investment Choices: Develop the competency to evaluate investments not only on financial merits but also on their environmental, social, and governance impacts.
  • Stay Ahead with Cutting Edge Tools: Be adept at using the latest technological tools to improve portfolio performance and operational efficiency.
  • Have the Foundation to Continue Professional Growth: Establish a basis for ongoing learning and adaptation in the ever-evolving field of investment management, encouraging continual professional development.


These objectives are designed to ensure that by the end of the course, participants are not only knowledgeable about asset allocation but also capable of applying this knowledge in practical, client-focused scenarios.

According to NASAA guidelines, to successfully complete the course, you must achieve a score of at least 70% on the final assessment. You have up to three attempts to reach this score. If you do not pass after three attempts, you will need to retake the entire course before you can try the assessment again.

Course Instructions

NASAA does not endorse any particular provider of CE courses. The content of the course and any views expressed are my/our own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASAA or any of its member jurisdictions.

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