Discover the DSI Mediakit

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For those who are DSI certified, it is crucial to be able to clearly explain the meaning of this certification to both current and prospective clients and colleagues. Fortunately, DSI has compiled a comprehensive mediakit to support you in this endeavor.

Check out the DSI mediakit here.

What does our DSI Mediakit offer?

  • Informative Brochures: Learn more about our certification programs and the benefits your registration brings to your clients.
  • Visual Content: Use our videos and banners to visually reinforce the essence of your DSI registration.
  • Logos in Various File Formats: Our logos are available for use in various communication channels, including websites, digital signatures, and business cards.
  • LinkedIn Banners: Enhance your LinkedIn profile with professional banners highlighting your certification and achievements.
  • Press Material: For journalists and media professionals, we provide useful tools to learn more about the mission and objectives of DSI.

Do you have specific requests, such as integrating your company logo? Feel free to contact us at communication@dsi.nl. Together, we can explore how to meet your individual needs.

Take a look at our DSI Mediakit now and let us support you in spreading your registration story. Together, we’re working towards even more success in the financial sector!

DSI funding change

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As of January 1, 2024, our funding structure will change. This change makes DSI’s funding fairer and more transparent. We are saying goodbye to the participation fee and will evenly distribute our annual costs across the number of certified professionals. What does this mean in practice? Simply put, the more professionals who certify themselves, the lower the annual costs per certified professional will be.

While these changes bring predominantly positive aspects, we realize that they may have different effects (sometimes temporarily) for some participants. We want to provide clear and transparent information to our participants about the background of these changes and how they will impact your organization.

What does the change in funding entail?

The adjustment mainly involves simplifying our funding method. The basis remains the number of certifications per participant, but we are adjusting our calculation method and eliminating the annual participation fee. Each year, a single fee per certification will be determined, and participants will receive only one annual invoice, regardless of the number of changes made during the year. This annual invoice is based on the average number of certifications over the past three years.

With these changes, we make DSI’s financing fairer. We distribute our annual costs fairly across the number of certified professionals. As more professionals become certified, the costs per certified individual will decrease.

Certification fees 2024

Based on the total number of certifications and the DSI budget for 2024, we anticipate that the cost per DSI certification in 2024 will be around 330 euros. We determine this in January, using the final numbers from the end of 2023. For more informatie about the fees 2024, look at this page.

In January, participants will receive an invoice based on the average number of certifications that they, as DSI participants, have registered with DSI over the past 3 years. Participants will receive only one invoice in 2024, regardless of the number of new certifications or changes administered in the coming year.

Characteristics of the new funding method

  • More predictability: The new method provides more predictability for both participants and our organization since cost fluctuations are reduced by averaging over three years.
  • Reduced administrative burdens: We understand that administrative burdens can sometimes be perceived as cumbersome. With the new structure, we reduce the number of invoicing moments, thus decreasing administrative burden.
  • A fairer and more tranparant system: The new structure eliminates tiers and introduces a fairer system for all participants, emphasizing equal treatment.

More Information

We value our relationship with all our participants and understand that changes may raise questions at times. We are here to answer all your questions and address any concerns you may have. If you would like more information about the changes in costs, please visit the following page: funding changes. Feel free to contact us if you need further clarification.

You can contact Nana Asante (Relationship Manager DSI) or Floris Mreijen (Director DSI) for answers to your questions via the contact form or by phone at 020 – 620 12 74.

New governance DSI

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The board of DSI has decided, as the final step in all the earlier changes, to adjust the governance of the organization. The model with a General Board is being replaced by a Supervisory Board with a director-manager. The Supervisory Board will be operational in the autumn of 2023.

The development of DSI’s governance model

When DSI was founded in 1999, a governance structure was chosen in which industry organizations from the sector joined. These branches represented their constituency on the board. Over time, there have been regular discussions about alternative governance structures, and several adjustments have been made. In recent years, DSI has worked with a broad General Board with an independent chairman. A Managing Board was formed from the General Board, and the director was responsible for the day-to-day management of the organization.

DSI is transitioning to a supervisory board model

In 2023, after considering various governance models, the General Board decided to establish a Supervisory Board with a director-manager. This model, which has become common for smaller foundations and associations, best suits the renewed and smaller DSI and makes decision-making faster and more flexible. The involved industry organizations will have a different role, anchored in the new statutes.

The main elements of the new governance are as follows:

  • The Supervisory Board is tasked with overseeing the policies of the board (the director-manager) and the general affairs of the Foundation.
  • The Supervisory Board will consist of at least 4 and at most 5 individuals. These individuals have a background in the financial sector and an affinity with DSI’s field of work. The composition of the Supervisory Board will be aligned with the corporate governance code as much as possible.
  • The director-manager is responsible for managing the foundation and annually prepares an activity plan and a budget. The Supervisory Board must then approve the activity plan and the budget. The approval of the Supervisory Board is also required for several other significant decisions by the director-manager.
  • The involvement of the industry organizations is enshrined in the statutes. The director-manager is required to hold annual discussions with the industry organizations about strategic developments. The director-manager will also organize an annual plenary meeting for the industry organizations to discuss the annual plan and budget. This will start in 2024.
  • The statutes also include a mechanism to keep DSI’s costs under control. A financial committee will be established with the task of assessing the efficiency and necessity of a significant budget overrun or a proposed increase in the budget for the following year.
  • The new Supervisory Board will commence in the autumn of 2023. DSI will communicate the composition of the board in the near future.

More Information

If you would like more information about the new governance, please contact Floris Mreijen (Director DSI) for answers to your questions via the contact form or by phone at 020 – 620 12 74.

Learning objectives PE 2024

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Every year, the DSI Advisory Committees revise the learning objectives for the Continuing Professional Education (PE) program to keep the registers up-to-date and comply with changing laws and regulations. Here is a concise overview of the learning objectives for the Retail Investment, Institutional Investment, and Treasury registers:

Retail Investment

The PE program for Retail covers the topics alternative investments, publicly traded private equity, sustainable investing, and AI. It also addresses the theme of saving versus investing. The PE program will delve into the impact of changing return expectations (e.g., higher bond yields) and changing taxation regarding saving and investing on the suitability of a particular risk profile.

View the learning objectives for Retail in 2024 here.

Institutional Investment

Similar to this year, the learning objectives place significant emphasis on current developments in sustainable investing. The consequences of the current interest rate policy for various asset classes are also discussed. Additionally, topics include monetary developments, the transition to the new pension system, Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA), and AI.

View the learning objectives for Institutional Investment in 2024 here.

Treasury

The learning objectives for Treasury in the coming year focus on the most important developments in sustainable investing in commodity markets. Carbon credits are also covered. The impact of the current interest rate policy and geopolitical risks will be addressed in the PE program as well. Finally, EMIR 3.0 and AI are included in the learning objectives.

View the learning objectives for Treasury in 2024 here.

DSI ensures the quality and content of the PE programs by keeping the learning objectives current. The topics are assembled by experts from the industry in various DSI advisory committees. More information about the PE program can be found here.

DSI and EY are hosting a roundtable on greenwashing | Part II

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Challenges in Marketing and Communication

In 2023, DSI and EY are joining forces to organize a series of exclusive roundtable meetings focused on the timely topic of greenwashing and how the financial sector is addressing it. Our goal is to facilitate a constructive dialogue among policymakers from various sectors, discussing recent developments and their impact on investment practices.

Defining greenwashing: compliance and legal aspects

Our first meeting, held in June, focused on the compliance and legal aspects of greenwashing. Participants in this session extensively discussed the current definition of greenwashing and how different organizations interpret this concept. A key talking point was an article published by ESMA on June 1st, exploring the definition of greenwashing through various articles.

Marketing and communication challenges

In our second meeting on September 13th, a new group of specialists discussed the marketing and communication challenges associated with greenwashing. The session began with an introduction and the establishment of objectives. We then engaged in open discussions on various topics. We started by critically examining the current definition of greenwashing and reflecting on its interpretation by participating organizations.

Next, we focused on how an excessive emphasis on commercial incentives can lead to greenwashing. We explored why greenwashing exists in the first place and how organizations and professionals can become involved in this phenomenon. We also discussed the challenges this presents for marketing professionals in carrying out their work.

Moral and ethical considerations in the financial sector

Moral and ethical considerations related to greenwashing were extensively discussed. We examined the differences in ethical perspectives on ESG between investors and institutions offering investment products. We pondered why there is a difference in understanding and whether the financial sector itself should establish concrete frameworks to provide clarity and maintain trust.

Effective communication of ESG performance

Another important point of discussion was how to effectively communicate a company’s ESG performance. We had extensive discussions on how this can be done transparently and accurately. Participants shared numerous practical examples where ESG performance was honestly and clearly communicated to investors.

The final part of the meeting focused on creating awareness within organizations about greenwashing. We discussed how to ensure that this topic is on the agenda at all levels of an organization. Attendees shared valuable best practices.

Upcoming session: greenwashing from an investment perspective

It’s important to note that there will be one more session on Greenwashing in October, this time from an investment perspective, with investment specialists. The findings and insights from these three meetings will be compiled into an informative whitepaper to be shared on our website.

Contact Information

For more information about these inspiring meetings, please contact Floris Mreijen, the director, and/or Mark van der Lecq, the lead legal at DSI.

Renewed and modernized integrity e-learning

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Together with the Dutch Compliance Institute (NCI), DSI has completely revamped the ‘Integrity’ e-learning. This modernized e-learning is designed to raise awareness among financial professionals about the importance of acting with integrity in their daily practice. It is mandatory for anyone seeking certification within one of the DSI registers. You can enroll in the e-learning starting today through the Dutch Compliance Institute website.

Renewed and modernized integrity e-learning ready for use

The e-learning has undergone a thorough makeover. Not only has the content and structure been revised, but all learning objectives have also been meticulously reviewed by NCI in collaboration with members of the DSI Integrity Advisory Committee. During the development, committee members also shared their insights. The result? A completely revised and modernized ‘DSI-Integrity’ e-learning, available for use starting today.

Sign up here for the Integrity E-learning

Efficient E-Learning: Shorter Duration and Focus on Relevance

In addition to changes in structure, we have also considered the time factor for participants. We have critically evaluated the relevance of topics and the length of texts, resulting in a shorter duration for completing the e-learning.

Important to note: the new e-learning is applicable to all professionals, regardless of their role or responsibilities. Integrity is crucial for every professional, and this is highlighted through examples from various work environments. Upon completing the e-learning, there will be an assessment that needs to be passed with a satisfactory grade.

Workshop as an Additional Requirement for Certain Professionals

For some professionals in DSI’s ESMA and Specialists Registers, an additional requirement applies: in addition to the e-learning, they must also successfully complete the DSI Integrity Workshop. This workshop is conducted by the Dutch Compliance Institute in collaboration with Nyenrode Business University. It primarily focuses on applying integrity and critical judgment in practice.

How can I enroll in the e-learning and/or the workshop?

If you wish to enroll in the e-learning and/or the workshop, you can do so through the Dutch Compliance Institute website: www.compliance-instituut.nl. For more information about the Integrity E-Learning, you can also contact the Dutch Compliance Institute at 088-9988100 or DSI at 020-6201274.

Outcomes DSI consultation board meeting

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We recently held our first DSI Consultation Meeting, and we’re eager to share the valuable insights we gained. During this meeting, discussions revolved around current training programs, certifications, and concrete suggestions to improve DSI’s visibility. Concrete action points were established to further strengthen DSI and increase engagement.

Training & Examinations:

Engaging discussions centered on the structure of training and examinations, which vary between providers, raising questions about uniformity. It was clarified that while providers have flexibility in their approach, they must align with the learning objectives. DSI has committed to ongoing dialogue with providers and feedback discussions.

Certification:

We explored opportunities to expand and deepen registers, touching on themes such as sustainability, digitization, and financial crime. Some expressed a desire for more tailored training and perhaps a register for specialists in specific areas. DSI will incorporate this feedback into the ongoing strategy development. We have already taken the first step in this direction by developing the DSI Financial Crime Professional register.

Importance of Visibility:

Many valuable tips were shared, emphasizing the importance of DSI’s visibility. We aim to share more information, both online and offline, and seek input from certified professionals on current topics. DSI is evolving into a platform open to all stakeholders. We will utilize LinkedIn to actively engage professionals.

Action Points for DSI:

– Enhance visibility (e.g., through LinkedIn).
– Develop an information package for certified professionals.
– Research improvements in training programs.
– Provide clear explanations of ESMA registers on the website.

We thank the participants of the DSI Consultation Group, consisting of 8 certified professionals, for their active contributions and look forward to future developments. If you are interested in joining the consultation group and shaping the future of DSI, there is still room for 2 more members. Sign up here!

What does the DSI Consultation Group entail?

The consultation group consists of a fixed group of up to 10 certified professionals from various DSI registers. The group meets twice a year for a meeting at Beursplein in Amsterdam. During these meetings, various developments and services of DSI are discussed, focusing on how we can bring DSI closer to professionals and align our strategy accordingly.

Complete your Continuing Education for the end of 2023

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Keeping your knowledge up to date: follow the DSI Continuing Professional Education (PE) Program 2023! Every year, we update the PE program to align with the latest developments in the sector and changes in regulations. Successfully completing the PE program is essential to maintain your full DSI certification.

With this message, we would like to draw your attention to the timely completion of the PE program that matches your DSI registration. Why? Because it keeps your knowledge current, and you can immediately apply the insights gained in practice.

Furthermore, completing the PE program is a crucial part of the ESMA requirement. Failing to complete the PE program on time can have direct consequences for your daily work as a professional.

Have you successfully completed PE 2023?

Depending on your training provider, you may have already successfully completed PE 2023. If that’s the case, congratulations! You don’t need to take any further action at this time. In January 2024, we will receive a list of successful candidates from all training providers. At that time, we will process your results and update them in the Public Register.

If you have multiple DSI registrations, you need to complete the specific PE program for each registration. Please note that the PE program is not mandatory for certified individuals who are only registered in the Integrity Register.

Verify if your chosen PE program matches your registration.

It’s essential to verify if the PE program you have chosen aligns with your DSI registration. If you have any doubts, please feel free to contact us. This will help avoid unnecessary confusion. Remember that if, for example, you are registered in the Advising Standard Retail Investment Register, you should follow the PE program for Advising Standard Retail Investment, not the program for Informing Retail Investment.

Registered before January 1, 2023, means mandatory completion of PE 2023.

If you registered before January 1, 2023, you are required to successfully complete PE 2023. Candidates who applied for (candidate) certification in 2023 will start with PE 2024 from January 1, 2024. Consult the information about PE 2023 for more details.

Make sure to complete PE 2023 before the end of the year.

While you still have some time, we strongly recommend starting the program as soon as possible if you haven’t already. On our website, you’ll find a list of training providers offering the PE 2023 program. Don’t forget to consult with your employer first to see if specific arrangements have been made with a particular training provider, as this can impact your choice. The deadline for completing PE 2023 is April 1, 2024.

Consequences of not completing PE 2023 on time.

Annually, you must successfully complete the Permanent Educatie program if you hold a DSI certification. Failing to do so on time may have direct consequences for both your work and your registration in the DSI Public Register. If you don’t pass the PE, your registration will be changed to ‘Candidate Certified,’ which means you no longer meet ESMA guidelines. This could also result in your employer needing to supervise your work if you haven’t completed PE 2023.

More information and contact

For more information and to get in touch with us regarding the Continuing Professional Education program, please visit www.dsi.nl/en/pe2023 or submit a question via our contact page.

Termination of passive certified status

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From January 1, 2024, DSI will discontinue offering the passive registered status. DSI is providing passive registrants the opportunity to convert their registration to a (candidate) certification before this date. All passive registrants have been informed about this option through personal emails.

Why is DSI discontinuing the passive registration status?

With a DSI Certification, professionals in the investment sector demonstrate their competence and stay updated on the latest developments in integrity, knowledge, and skills. Passive registration was introduced in the past to temporarily exempt certified individuals from the obligations associated with certification. Passive certified individuals do not meet the requirements of a DSI Certification. As this no longer aligns with our current DSI registry policy, we are discontinuing this status and offering an alternative.

How to convert a passive registration?

To be certified by DSI, you need to be employed by a participant affiliated with DSI. If you currently work for an organization that is not a DSI participant and you wish to convert your passive registration, we advise discussing the option of becoming a DSI participant with your employer. After your employer’s acceptance as a participant, you will go through a process to convert your passive registration to active registration. Click this link for more information on enrolling your employer as a participant.

Reactivate your certification

If you currently work for an employer affiliated with DSI but are passively certified, you can directly reactivate your certification through your MyDSI account. In MyDSI, you can request a change from passive registration. Click the “I want to change my passive registration” button in MyDSI for more information.

Click here for (re)activation of a passive DSI registration

Competency requirements for DSI registries

When (re)activating your certification, you must fulfill all competency components of the respective registry. Click here to gain immediate insight into the associated competency requirements per registry. If you haven’t met all competency requirements yet, no problem – you will be candidate-certified until all components are fulfilled.

Respond by January 1, 2024

If we do not receive a response from passively certified individuals by January 1, 2024, the registration with DSI will be automatically terminated. We extend our gratitude to all certified individuals for their involvement with DSI and invite everyone to subscribe to the DSI newsletter to stay informed about future developments.

More information

If you need more information about your DSI registration or if you are passively certified and have not received a letter from us, please contact us through our contact form or call our Customer Care Officers at 020-6201274. They are here to assist you.

DSI and EY are organizing a roundtable discussion on Greenwashing

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DSI and EY are joining forces in 2023 to organize a series of exclusive roundtable meetings, focusing on the current topic of greenwashing and how the financial sector is addressing it. Our goal is to facilitate a constructive dialogue among policymakers from various sectors, discussing recent developments and analyzing their impact on investment practices. The discussion will revolve around the moral and ethical considerations related to greenwashing. The valuable insights derived from these meetings will be compiled and presented in an informative white paper by the end of the year.

Greenwashing from different perspectives

The first meeting took place on June 7th at Beursplein in Amsterdam, with a focus on compliance and legal aspects. This session brought together professionals from risk, legal, and compliance domains of various DSI participants.

After an introduction and setting the meeting’s objectives, open discussions covered various topics. Firstly, the current definition of greenwashing was critically examined. What does this term precisely entail, and how do the present organizations interpret this theme? We reflected on an ESMA article published on June 1st that explores the definition of greenwashing based on various articles.

Current regulation surrounding greenwashing

Subsequently, our attention turned to the current regulations. Greenwashing is addressed through several European sustainable finance regulations. Together, we discussed how organizations navigate this complex set of rules. How do they implement these guidelines, and which regulations have the most significant impact on their operations?

Moral and ethical considerations regarding greenwashing were also extensively discussed. We explored the differences in ethical standpoints on ESG between investors and institutions offering investment products. Why does such a disparity in understanding exist, and should the financial sector itself establish concrete frameworks to provide clarity and maintain trust?

Creating awareness about greenwashing within your organization

The final part of the meeting focused on creating awareness about greenwashing within organizations. How can we ensure that this topic is on the agenda at every level of the organization? Attendees shared valuable best practices, which we will elaborate on in the white paper scheduled for publication at the end of the year.

After the summer, DSI and EY will host two more sessions on Greenwashing, but this time from a different perspective, involving marketing and communication specialists, as well as investment experts. The findings from these three gatherings will be consolidated into an informative white paper, to be shared on our website.

For more information about these inspiring meetings, feel free to reach out to Floris Mreijen (Director) and/or Mark van der Lecq (Lead Legal) by sending an email to certificering@dsi.nl.