Member Benefits & Professional Designations
As the professional body for stockbrokers and other financial markets professionals, the South African Institute of Stockbrokers (SAIS) provides designation holders with a range of benefits — including access to Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and participation in Thought Leadership initiatives.
Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
The SAIS CPD programme, in partnership with the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI), offers a wide selection of CPD topics. Most sessions are delivered online and can be completed at the member’s own pace. CPD activities completed through the SAIS CPD portal are automatically recorded, enabling easy tracking of CPD hours attained.
For many professionals in the financial markets, CPD is a requirement of the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA). CPD records maintained via the SAIS portal may also be used for FSCA reporting if they meet the relevant criteria.
Thought Leadership
As a thought leader in South Africa’s financial markets, SAIS provides insights and professional guidance on industry developments. Through participation in Industry Fora and bodies such as the FSCA Competency Forum, SAIS offers feedback on draft legislation and maintains regular engagement with exchanges, regulators, legislators, and industry stakeholders. These comments and reports are available to members.
Professional Designations
The SAIS offers seven professional designations, representing a broad spectrum of roles in the financial markets:
| Title | Designation |
|---|---|
| Certified Stockbroker (SA) | CSb(SA) |
| Certified Financial Markets Practitioner (SA) | CFMP(SA) |
| *Certified Financial Markets Professional (SA) General™ | CFMP-G(SA) |
| *Certified Financial Markets Professional (SA) Trading™ | CFMP-T(SA) |
| *Certified Financial Markets Professional (SA) Settlement and Administration™ | CFMP-S&A(SA) |
| *Certified Financial Markets Professional (SA) Compliance™ | CFMP-C(SA) |
| *Certified Financial Markets Professional (SA) Portfolio and Investment Management™ | CFMP-PIM(SA) |
*These designations will be available from 2025.
Designation Levels
Each designation is assigned a level: Affiliate or Associate.
- Affiliate: Completed the theoretical requirements only.
- Associate: Completed both theoretical and prescribed practical experience.
Both levels enjoy the full benefits of SAIS membership and are expected to:
- Adhere to the SAIS Code of Conduct
- Meet CPD requirements and report activities
- Pay annual membership fees
Compliant members are considered “Members in Good Standing” and marked as “Active.”
Membership Categories
- Student: Registered to write SAIS examinations leading to a designation.
- Active: Fully compliant and paid-up member.
- Resigned: Officially withdrawn. No longer holds designation but may reapply without penalty.
- Lapsed: In arrears with fees. Reinstatement incurs penalties and late fees.
- Suspended: Under investigation or non-compliant with CPD.
- Terminated: Membership revoked following disciplinary procedures.
- Retired: No longer active in markets but retains designation. Reduced fees apply. CPD optional.
- Honorary: Conferred by SAIS Council for exceptional service (e.g., past Presidents, 50-year members).
If an individual has not been a SAIS member for more than three years, a new application must be submitted and will be assessed against current criteria.
Corporate Membership
Unlock exclusive benefits and shape the future of the financial markets by signing up for a Corporate Membership with the South African Institute of Stockbrokers (SAIS). Our tailored memberships ensure that both top-tier and smaller brokers can participate equally, fostering a more inclusive financial ecosystem.
Influence Regulatory Change
Corporate members gain privileged access to SAIS comment papers submitted to regulators. This unique opportunity allows your organization to actively participate in shaping the financial markets landscape for the benefit of all participants and the public.
Leadership Opportunities
Secure a voice on the SAIS Council with reserved seats for Corporate Members (limited number of Corporate Member seats). Follow our standard governance procedures to take up these influential positions and drive industry advancements.
Professional Development Perks
Enjoy a set number of CPD activity approvals, with preferential rates for additional approvals once the initial quota is met. Corporate Members also receive significant discounts on most SAIS training programs.
Join SAIS Corporate Membership today to influence South African financial markets and access premium benefits.
Email: sais@sais.co.za
Start making a difference.