Introduction to Islamic Finance

Islamic Finance has become one of the world’s fastest growing financial sectors as investors show an increasing desire for a variety of Islamic financial instruments. From Kuala Lumpur to Dubai, from Los Angeles to London, some 300 Islamic banks and other financial instituations are operating in some 50 countries, with total assets that top USD400 billion.

The Institute of Accounting Technicians hopes to build on the success of Islamic Banking in mostly Muslim countries, as well as European and North American countries that have sizable Muslim populations. By completing this course a financial advisor will be in a very good position to offer consulting services to Muslims and Islamic Financial Institutions.

Muslims are directed to avoid certain types of investments and are required to consider guidelines in the development of their estate plan. Any financial advisor counseling them should become aware of these guidelines. When it comes to formulating an excellent financial plan Muslims frequently refer to characteristics and rules embodied in Islamic teachings.

Investments to avoid include any institution involved in gambling, such as a casino or a casino hotel, any manufacturer or distributor of alcohol products. Also included are any production, distribution or vending of pork or pork by-products.

The laws applicable to estate planning encourage family and charitable gifting, but also require provisions for
surviving spouses and contain special requirements for distribution to male heirs because of the family responsibilities imposed on them by the Muslim guidelines.

The certificate in Islamic finance will provide a basis of sound theoretical knowledge and combined with professional experience will provide an excellent basis for planning opportunities.

Resources: Glossary of Islamic Financial Terms

For further details please download the course brochure.

All study material can be bought online from our bookstore.

If you are interested in studying for this certificate please email our administrative office.