Strengthening Business Valuation Through New University Exemptions and Renewed Global Partnership

Singapore, 23 October 2026 – The Institute of Valuers and Appraisers Singapore (IVAS) today announced new collaborations to advance business valuation through new university pathways for aspiring valuation professionals, a refreshed Chartered Valuer and Appraiser (CVA) Programme curriculum, and the renewal of our longstanding partnership with the International Valuation Standards Council (IVSC).

CVA Programme Module Exemptions for Accountancy Graduates from SMU, NTU and SUSS

2            To broaden access to the CVA Programme, IVAS has granted module exemptions to three autonomous universities – Singapore Management University (SMU), Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS). These exemptions recognise the alignment of selected subjects in the universities’ Bachelor of Accountancy programmes with the relevant CVA Programme requirements.

3            As a start, eligible graduates from the three universities will be exempted from one CVA Programme module, reducing the time and cost to attain the CVA qualification. As the subjects that qualify graduates for the exemption form part of the universities’ Bachelor of Accountancy programmes, the initiative is expected to benefit more than 400 graduating students each year. IVAS will continue working with universities to assess opportunities for further curriculum alignment and module exemptions, with the aim of creating more accessible pathways for graduates to attain the CVA qualification.

Keeping the Business Valuation Profession Future-Ready

4            The CVA Programme curriculum was refreshed for the January 2026 intake to include enhanced content on the valuation of intangible assets, which are becoming increasingly prevalent across the corporate landscape. The curriculum will undergo a further review in 2027 in preparation for new International Valuation Standards (IVS), which are expected to take effect in January 2028. Regular reviews of the CVA Programme ensure that it remains benchmarked against IVS and responsive to market developments. More than 150 professionals from Singapore and the region have enrolled in the refreshed CVA Programme since its launch in January 2026.

Renewal of IVAS-IVSC MOU

5            IVAS and IVSC have renewed their Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for a fourth term, reaffirming their longstanding partnership in advancing valuation standards and practices globally. The renewed MOU will enable IVAS and IVSC to deepen their cooperation in professional development, thought leadership and regional engagement.

6            Mr Nicholas Talbot, Chief Executive, IVSC, said, "IVSC is delighted to renew the MOU with IVAS for a fourth term, continuing the strong level of co-operation in Singapore, as well as both parties exploring where to work together further to advance standards and professionalism across Asia."

IVAS-IVSC Business Valuation Conference 2026

7            These initiatives were announced at the IVAS-IVSC Business Valuation Conference 2026, held today and graced by Ms Indranee Rajah, Minister in the Prime Minister's Office and Second Minister for Finance and National Development. The conference drew more than 800 participants from Singapore and the region, spanning the valuation, investment, and professional services communities.

8            Themed ‘Navigating New Realities in Corporate Markets”, this year’s conference marks the first time that IVAS and IVSC have collaborated with CFA Society Singapore, creating a platform for professionals from the business valuation and investment management communities to exchange insights and strengthen professional networks. The collaboration reflects the growing interconnections between the two professions and aims to encourage cross-disciplinary learning and strengthen the valuation ecosystem in Singapore and the region.

9            Mr Lie Kok Keong, IVAS Council Chairperson, said, "Intangible assets today account for an ever-growing share of corporate value, and the decisions that businesses and investors make increasingly depend on rigorous, credible valuation. The new university pathways, refreshed CVA Programme and renewed partnership with IVSC reflects IVAS’ commitment to ensuring the valuation profession keeps pace with these developments, remains globally connected and is accessible to the next generation of practitioners."

10            Ms Cindy Tan Hwee Leng, President of CFA Society Singapore, said, “As markets grow more complex and intangible assets take centre stage, the valuation and investment professions are becoming increasingly interconnected. This collaboration between CFA Society Singapore, IVAS and IVSC creates a timely and valuable platform for practitioners from both communities to exchange insights, tackle emerging challenges together and build a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape."

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