The Strate Academy has added a new module, Global Funds Access (GFA), to the Strate exams syllabus.

The Academy is committed to enhancing the knowledge of individuals working in the securities industry. The Strate exams now consist of six modules, which all align with the objectives of the Financial Markets Act 19 of 2012 (FMA) and are relevant and fit for purpose.

Global Funds Access module

The Global Funds Access module is available from Wednesday, 28 October 2026.

The module covers:

• The regulatory framework governing the GFA solution, which includes the roles of the FMA, the Collective Investment Schemes Control Act 45 of 2002 and the Strate Rules and Directives
• Key role-players and operating processes for global funds, including onboarding, record keeping, settlement, corporate actions and reconciliation

The module also addresses compliance officers’ understanding of their oversight responsibilities in the GFA environment. This module supports consistent compliance practices across CSD Participants and helps protect market integrity as the GFA solution evolves.

Exam structure

Module 1, “Understanding Strate and the financial markets”, is compulsory for anyone wishing to write the Strate exams (including compliance officers and settlement officers). The other five modules, which cover bonds, money market securities, equities, collective investment schemes and global funds, are electives.

Compliance officers must complete Module 1 and the elective module exams relevant to the markets in which their CSD Participant operates. Settlement officers must complete Module 1 and select the elective modules relevant to their roles.

Should you have any queries or need more information, please contact the Strate Academy at academy@strate.co.za.