The Gold Standard for M&A Advisory in Asia
ACFI certification signals trust, expertise, and professional excellence to clients and partners across the Asia-Pacific region.
Stand Out in the Market
ACFI certification is recognized across Asia-Pacific as the mark of a trusted, competent M&A advisory firm. Here's what it means for your practice.
Client Trust
Certification provides third-party validation that your firm meets rigorous professional standards.
Network Access
Join a curated network of the region's top M&A advisory professionals for referrals and collaboration.
Market Intelligence
Access exclusive research, deal data, and industry insights not available to non-certified firms.
Brand Enhancement
Use the ACFI certification badge on your website, pitch materials, and business development collateral.
Talent Attraction
Top M&A professionals prefer to work at certified firms, helping you attract and retain talent.
Continuous Development
Benefit from ACFI's training programs, workshops, and events designed for certified practitioners.
Three Levels of Excellence
Certified Member
For established M&A advisory firms meeting core professional standards.
Requirements
- 3+ years in M&A advisory
- Completed at least 5 transactions
- Professional qualifications held by senior team
- Clean compliance record
Benefits
- ACFI directory listing
- Use of ACFI Certified badge
- Access to research library
- Annual networking events
Gold Certified
For high-performing firms with a strong regional track record.
Requirements
- 5+ years in M&A advisory
- Completed at least 15 transactions
- Cross-border deal experience
- Client satisfaction metrics above 85%
Benefits
- Everything in Certified Member, plus:
- Featured directory placement
- Priority referral network access
- Exclusive roundtable invitations
- Early access to research reports
Founding Member
Reserved for leading firms with exceptional track records and regional influence.
Requirements
- 10+ years in M&A advisory
- Completed at least 50 transactions
- $500M+ in cumulative deal value
- Multi-market presence in Asia-Pacific
Benefits
- Everything in Gold Certified, plus:
- Top-tier directory positioning
- ACFI Advisory Board eligibility
- Co-branded research opportunities
- Speaking opportunities at ACFI events
- Dedicated relationship manager
Five-Step Certification Process
Application
Submit your firm's details and supporting documentation through our online portal.
Review
Our certification committee reviews your application against tier-specific criteria.
Assessment
Selected firms undergo a detailed assessment including reference checks and verification.
Approval
Approved firms receive their certification and are listed in the ACFI directory.
Maintenance
Annual renewal ensures ongoing compliance with ACFI standards and ethics.
Code of Ethics
All ACFI-certified firms commit to upholding the highest standards of professional conduct. Our Code of Ethics requires:
Act with integrity, honesty, and transparency in all client relationships
Maintain client confidentiality and manage conflicts of interest responsibly
Provide competent advice based on thorough analysis and professional judgment
Comply with all applicable laws and regulations in jurisdictions of operation
Commit to ongoing professional development and knowledge sharing
Uphold fair competition and respect fellow practitioners
Report any breaches of ethics promptly to the ACFI Ethics Committee
Start Your Application
Ready to join Asia's most trusted M&A advisory network? Complete the form below and our certification team will be in touch within 5 business days.