Become a Macro Specialist
The M²SD program prepares candidates for today’s volatile market realities. You will build a new skill set that is additive and complementary to fundamental research practices. Armed with this new macro toolkit, you can elevate your performance across ever-evolving macro backdrops.
- Online & Self-Paced Classes
- Global Test Locations Available
- Flexible Exam Scheduling
- Complementary to CFA®
- Peer-to-Peer Networking Groups
- Transparent & Comprehensive Course Costs
Level 1: Base Camp
The Essentials of Applied Macro
Base Camp examines the principles of macroeconomics, various forms of policy, interest rates, and how these forces come together to influence the business cycle and ultimately financial markets.
Chapter 1: Introduction To Macro Principles
Chapter 2: A Guide To Practical Economics
Chapter 3: The Data
Chapter 4: Leading Economic Indicators (LEIs)
Chapter 5: Anticipatory Economic Indicators (AEIs)
Chapter 6: Monetary Policy
Chapter 7: The Yield Curve
Chapter 8: Fiscal Policy
Chapter 9: The Currency
Chapter 10: Other Long-Term Economic Influences
Chapter 11: The Equity Market
Chapter 12: Earnings Expectations (EPS)
Chapter 13: Market Multiples (P/Es)
Chapter 14: An Alternative Take On Dividends
Chapter 15: Market Cycles
Chapter 16: Market Valuation Models
Chapter 17: Fixed Income Markets (Bonds)
Chapter 18: Behavioral Finance
Level 2 (Path A)
A Global Approach to Portfolio Strategy
Level 2 (Path A) focuses on the global economic backdrop and actionable portfolio management techniques.
Chapter 19: From “Great Moderation” To “Era Of Uncertainty”
Chapter 20: Investing In The “New Normal”
Chapter 21: A History of Exuberance And Crisis
Chapter 22: The Investment Backdrop And Why It Matters
Chapter 23: The World’s Influence On U.S. Equities
Chapter 24: The Eurozone
Chapter 25: Japan
Chapter 26: China
Chapter 27: Asset Allocation Is A Global Affair
Chapter 28: Sector Positioning And The Business Cycle
Chapter 29: The Technology Sector
Chapter 30: The Consumer Discretionary Sector
Chapter 31: The Communication Services Sector
Chapter 32: The Industrials Sector
Chapter 33: The Financials Sector
Chapter 34: Defensives: Health Care And Staples
Chapter 35: Cyclicals: Energy And Materials
Chapter 36: Rate-Sensitives: REITs And Utilities
Level 2 (Path B)
Translating Macro into Micro
Level 2 (Path B) focuses on stock selection factors and macro model building for stock pickers.
Chapter 37: The Use And Misuse Of The Size/Style Matrix
Chapter 38: Growth Investing In The New Normal
Chapter 39: Value Investing In The New Normal
Chapter 40: The Classic Factors And Their Applications
Chapter 41: Valuation
Chapter 42: Manipulation (Quality)
Chapter 43: Governance
Chapter 44: Operating Efficiency
Chapter 45: Profitability
Chapter 46: Factor Leadership And The Business Cycle
Chapter 47: Model Building In The Era Of Uncertainty
Chapter 48: Monitoring A Portfolio For: Credit Downgrades
Chapter 49: Monitoring A Portfolio For: M&A Activity
Chapter 50: Monitoring A Portfolio For: Sentiment/Crowding
Chapter 51: Monitoring A Portfolio For: Red Flags And Torpedoes
Chapter 52: Strengths And Weaknesses Of Classic Investment Strategies
Chapter 53: Value Traps And Other Common Pitfalls
Chapter 54: The Dos and Don’ts of Stock Selection
- Create Professional Opportunities
- Become a Better Investor
- Grow Client Book of Business
- Leverage Innovative Research & Insights
- Broaden Networking Opportunities
FAQS
You can begin your registration on themacroinstitute.com website from any “Register Now” button. You will be required to fill out a form with your personal information, which must match the government-issued identification that you plan to bring to the testing center. The Macro Institute will confirm whether you live in an approved geographical location. If so, you will receive an email with instruction on how to sign up for the program. You must complete the registration approval process before paying for the course. The M2SD program reserves the right to reject your registration in its sole discretion for any reason. If your registration is rejected, you will receive a refund of your fee.
We require that candidates are at least 18 years of age when they register for Level 1. There are no specific requirements for work experience or academic degrees.
As a U.S. corporation, The Macro Institute must abide by the regulations of the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Office of Foreign Asset Control (“OFAC”). OFAC regulations prohibit us from doing business with persons ordinarily resident in certain countries, as well as persons/entities on the Specially Designated Nationals (“SDN”) List. When you register and sign the Candidate Agreement, you represent these restrictions do not apply to you or your employer.
As a U.S. corporation, The Macro Institute must abide by the regulations of the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Office of Foreign Asset Control (“OFAC”). OFAC regulations prohibit us from doing business with persons ordinarily resident in certain countries, as well as persons/entities on the Specially Designated Nationals (“SDN”) List. When you register and sign the Candidate Agreement, you represent these restrictions do not apply to you or your employer.
Yes. By registering for the M2SD program you are agreeing that:
- You have never been convicted of a felony or any crime punishable by 1 year or more in prison.
- You have not been banned by FINRA or the equivalent regulatory authority in the jurisdiction in which you reside.
- You are not currently suspended by FINRA or another regulatory organization in the jurisdiction in which you reside.
- You are at least 18 years of age.
Absolutely. The ability to maintain a full-time job, and income, while broadening your skill set is one of the advantages of the M2SD program over a full-time graduate academic program.
The Meaning Behind M²SD
The Macro Specialist Designation, or M²SD, is awarded to distinguished financial professionals who have mastered the complexities of macro forces and their impact on financial markets. Below, we break down the meaning behind each component of M²SD, reflecting the profound expertise and status that comes with this respected credential.
Specialist is the distinguished title awarded to new members of The Macro Institute.
Designation honors an investment professional who has gained a deep understanding of the influential role macro principles play in the financial markets.
HOW TO USE YOUR DESIGNATION LETTERS
After successfully earning the M²SD designation, you should display these letters with pride to highlight your expertise in macro portfolio strategy and stock selection. To use the M²SD, place the letters after your name on business cards, email signatures, LinkedIn profiles, resumes, and professional bios. This immediately signals your specialized knowledge and distinguished status to colleagues, clients, and potential employers. You will also receive an M²SD badge to post on LinkedIn to celebrate your accomplishments.
Find out what M²SD has to offer
See how the M²SD program can make you a better investor. Download the course brochure to find out more.