From generally accepted guidance, reference methodologies and techniques, regulatory updates, and industry information ranging from basic call options to derivatives embedded within complex capital structures, the AICPA has resources to help you navigate this area.
Alternative investment and financial instrument valuation resources and guidance
Welcome to the AICPA’s financial instrument and alternative investment valuation resource hub.
From fair value standards and frameworks to emerging trends, explore trusted insights related to valuation of complex financial instruments and alternative investments.
Complex Financial Instrument Valuation, by the numbers

Featured News and Resources
Featured News and Resources
Financial Instruments and Alternative Investments Resource Library
Guidance and insights
Guides and illustrations
Our reference guides provide widely used guidance and illustrations regarding the accounting for and valuation of portfolio company investments held by investment companies within the scope of FASB ASC 820, Fair Value Measurement, and ASC 946, Financial Services—Investment Companies.
AICPA Accounting and Valuation Guide Valuation of Portfolio Company Investments of Venture Capital and Private Equity Funds and Other Investment Companies
AICPA Accounting and Valuation Guide Valuation of Privately-Held-Company Equity Securities Issued as Compensation
Standards and Framework
The AICPA's SSVS and FIPF aim to improve the consistency and quality of all valuation practitioners in the specialized area of complex financial instruments and alternative investments.
Valuation data, indexes, and other resources
Resources by topic
The Certified in Valuation of Financial Instruments (CVFI®) credential
The CVFI credential — exclusively from the AICPA — demonstrates expertise in fair value estimation for financial instruments.
To qualify, candidates must:
Show relevant valuation experience
Complete a targeted education program
Pass a rigorous exam covering a body of knowledge that includes valuation, regulatory, risk, and industry topics.
The Certified in Valuation of Financial Instruments (CVFI®) credential
The CVFI credential — exclusively from the AICPA — demonstrates expertise in fair value estimation for financial instruments.
To qualify, candidates must:
Show relevant valuation experience
Complete a targeted education program
Pass a rigorous exam covering a body of knowledge that includes valuation, regulatory, risk, and industry topics.
The CVFI program was developed post-Global Financial Crisis by leading experts to standardize and elevate financial instrument valuation. Credential holders apply proven processes, professional judgment, and the AICPA FIPF best practices to deliver reliable, transparent valuations.
Whether you're an investment manager, controller, auditor, or valuation specialist, the CVFI credential sets you apart in this complex field.
Certified in the Valuation of Financial Instruments (CVFI) credential
Learn more about the CVFI credential
Courses, webcasts, and more
Our Valuation Services team continually collaborates with experts, regulators, and academic leaders to develop educational content that helps you stay sharp and compliant.
Educational offerings include:
• Interactive courses and certificates (minicertificates coming soon)
• Webcasts, podcasts, and conference sessions
• Best practice guides and emerging methodology insights
Courses, webcasts, and more
Our Valuation Services team continually collaborates with experts, regulators, and academic leaders to develop educational content that helps you stay sharp and compliant.
Educational offerings include:
• Interactive courses and certificates (minicertificates coming soon)
• Webcasts, podcasts, and conference sessions
• Best practice guides and emerging methodology insights
Featured episodes of the FVS Valuation Podcast
Featured episodes of the FVS Valuation Podcast
Featured FVS events
Past Portfolio Valuation Forums
Hosted by KPMG
June 28, 2023
Featured panelists from:
• PIMCO
• BDT & MSD Capital
• Bessemer Ventures
• First Republic Bank
• Apollo Global
Hosted by Deloitte
June 12, 2024
Featured panelists from:
• Vista Equity Partners
• Turning Rock Partners
• Deep Ocean Partners
• Guggenheim Partners
Hosted by PwC
September 9, 2025
Featured panelists from:
• Blackstone & Marsal
• Bain Capital
• Churchill Asset Management
• Warburg Pincus
• (And Others)