Welcome to Accounting Coaches for the CFA Exam!
In the journey towards obtaining the CFA credential, many encounter a significant roadblock: understanding accounting concepts essential for the exams. This challenge often arises because the study materials assume a solid accounting foundation, leaving many candidates, particularly those without an accounting background, struggling to grasp these fundamental principles.
Our story began in a class setting, where we observed firsthand the frustration and confusion among non-accountant CFA candidates when confronted with the financial statement analysis (FSA) topics. It became evident that the existing study materials weren't tailored to meet the needs of non-accountants preparing for the CFA exams. These same frustrations are echoed in online forums when students say things like:
“ … The extensiveness of FSA is killing me. The material makes me want to throw everything away...“
“… Has anybody passed level 1 while doing poorly on FSA...”
“… the worst thing in accounting is knowing US GAAP and IFRS does a specific thing differently and you can’t remember which one is which…”
“… F*** FSA….”
Realizing the critical importance of FSA and other accounting topics in the CFA curriculum, we felt compelled to address this gap. Drawing from our experience and expertise in accounting (both in the classroom and in the corporate world), we set out to provide a solution—a resource specifically designed to bridge the gap between complex accounting principles and the needs of non-accountant CFA candidates.
Our mission is clear: to simplify accounting concepts and make them accessible to all aspiring CFA charter holders. Through our videos and resources, we aim to empower candidates with the knowledge and confidence needed to tackle the accounting components of the CFA exams successfully.
Join us as we navigate through the complexities of FSA and other core accounting topics together. Let's unlock your full potential on the CFA journey and pave the way for your success.
Summary of IFRS vs US GAAP from the entire curriculum already done for you!
Learn how to analyze inventory in this free online course to help you with studying!
Learn how to analyze financial statements in this free online course!
Tom Adams is our lead instructor at Accounting Coaches LLC helping create the curriculum, materials, lectures and questions our students use to prepare for the FSA topic of the CFA exams. Tom is able to leverage his experience as he is also an Accounting professor at La Salle University’s School of Business where he teaches a variety of accounting topics to both undergrate and graduate students while also publishing finance and accounting research papers. In addition, he has experience training young professionals in their preparation for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) examination too. Tom holds his Ph.D. in accounting from Temple University.
Over 15 years, George has built extensive accounting expertise with public and private firms and a major investment company, guiding complex accounting, financial reporting, and communication with non-accounting executives.
Earning his CFA charter in 2016, George saw many CFA candidates struggle with accounting, often failing Level 1 and 2 exams due to poor or costly resources. To address this, he co-founded Accounting Coaches LLC with Mike Lutz and onboarded Tom Adams, creating affordable, effective study solutions.
A CPA in Pennsylvania, George holds a Bachelor’s in Accounting from LaSalle University, graduating Magna Cum Laude. He has led numerous accounting presentations and taught FSA classes for the CFA Society of Philadelphia.
Michael Lutz has spent the past 12 years at national accounting and consulting firms, assisting clients with complex technical accounting and compliance issues. He has extensive experience coaching on everything from basic debits and credits to advanced accounting standards.
A licensed CPA in Pennsylvania, Mike holds Bachelor’s degrees in Accounting and Finance from West Chester University, graduating Magna Cum Laude. He is passionate about making accounting accessible and helping you achieve your goals!