📅 2026 Update: Changes in Corporate Law and Finance

Since the article was written, there have been several updates related to corporate finance and governance. These changes affect how corporations form and operate in the U.S. The original article continues further down this page.

📖 New CFA Exam Calculator Policy

As of January 12, 2026, the CFA Institute updated its calculator policy. Now, only two models are allowed during exams: the Texas Instruments BA II Plus and the Hewlett Packard 12C. This change impacts candidates preparing for the CFA exam, as they must ensure they have the correct calculator model.

📊 Exam Fees and Costs

The CFA Institute provides detailed information on exam fees, including registration and scheduling costs. It is essential for prospective candidates to check these fees to plan their budgets accordingly.

🗓️ Registration Process

To register for the CFA exam, candidates need to create an account on the CFA Institute's website. They must select an exam level and complete the registration process, including choosing an exam date and location.

⏳ CFA Exam Results

CFA exam results are typically available within 5 to 9 weeks after the exam window closes. This timeframe is crucial for candidates who want to know their results and plan their next steps.

📅 Registration Deadlines

Registration deadlines for the CFA exams vary by level and exam window. Candidates should consult the CFA Institute's official website for the most up-to-date deadlines to ensure they do not miss their chance to register.

📌 Key Points Summary

  • 📖 New calculator policy limits models to Texas Instruments BA II Plus and HP 12C.
  • 📊 CFA exam fees details are available on the CFA Institute's website.
  • 🗓️ Candidates must register online and choose exam dates and locations.
  • ⏳ Results are available 5 to 9 weeks after the exams.
  • 📅 Registration deadlines vary by exam level and window.

💡 Tips for Navigating Corporate Finance and Governance

Review the details of your situation with your attorney to ensure compliance with the latest regulations and requirements.

📘 Understand the CFA Exam Requirements

Candidates must have a bachelor's degree or be in their final year of undergraduate studies to take the CFA Level I exam. This eligibility rule is necessary to ensure that candidates have the foundational knowledge required for the program.

📅 Keep Track of Deadlines

It is crucial to monitor registration deadlines for the CFA exams. These deadlines change based on the exam level and window, so staying informed is important for prospective candidates.

📚 Utilize Free Resources

The CFA Institute offers free resources to assist candidates, including study materials and practice exams. These resources can help in effective preparation for the CFA exams, enhancing the chances of success.

🌐 Create an Account Early

Candidates should create an account on the CFA Institute's website as soon as they decide to take the exam. This will streamline the registration process and ensure access to important updates.

📊 Plan Your Budget

Understanding the costs associated with taking the CFA exam is essential. Candidates should research the registration and scheduling fees to ensure they can cover these expenses without financial strain.

🏆 Corporate Services Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

This section outlines services relevant to corporate formation and governance. These services are ranked based on Trustpilot data compiled in October 2026. Star ratings provide one perspective, but it's important to remember that unhappy customers often leave more reviews, which can affect averages.

🥇 1. Bizee

Bizee has been rated 4.8. It is known for providing business formation services, registered agent services, and compliance services. Reviewers appreciate the range of services, but some report issues with website navigation and occasional delays in document processing.

🥈 2. LegalZoom

LegalZoom holds a Trustpilot score of 4.6. It is recognized for its business formation services and legal document preparation. However, some users have pointed out delays in processing times and issues with customer support responsiveness.

🥉 3. Rocket Lawyer

Rocket Lawyer has a score of 4.5. Known for legal document creation and legal advice, it also offers business formation services. Users have noted that the subscription model can be costly, and there are occasional concerns with customer support responsiveness.

🆓 Free Resources from the CFA Institute

The CFA Institute provides free resources, including study materials and practice exams. These tools support candidates in preparing for the CFA exam without incurring additional costs.

🔎 What to Compare When Choosing Corporate Services

  • 🔍 Service offerings, such as business formation and compliance assistance.
  • 💬 User reviews and ratings for customer experiences.
  • ⏳ Average processing times for services.
  • 📅 Flexibility in registration deadlines and options.
  • 💰 Transparency of fees and costs associated with services.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What is the eligibility requirement for the CFA Level I exam?

Candidates must have a bachelor's degree or be in their final year of undergraduate studies to be eligible for the CFA Level I exam.

📅 How can I register for the CFA exam?

To register, candidates must create an account on the CFA Institute's website, select an exam level, and complete the registration process.

⏳ When will I receive my CFA exam results?

CFA exam results are typically available within 5 to 9 weeks after the exam window closes.

📅 Are there any free resources available for CFA exam preparation?

Yes, the CFA Institute offers free resources, including study materials and practice exams, to assist candidates in their preparation.

🗓️ How often do CFA exam registration deadlines change?

Registration deadlines vary by exam level and window, so candidates should frequently check the CFA Institute's website for the most current information.

📖 What calculator models are permitted for the CFA exams?

As of January 12, 2026, only the Texas Instruments BA II Plus and Hewlett Packard 12C models are allowed during CFA exams.

⚖️ Recent Cases in Corporate Law

Recent court rulings have addressed various aspects of corporate law, influencing how companies operate and govern. These rulings can impact corporate finance and compliance practices.

For more recent rulings, please browse more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update









For businesses, cash flow is an important determining factor for purchasing decisions, financing and assessments of the long term sustainability of a business.  Excessive lines of credit, a poor accounts receivable turnover ratio, too much inventory, or seasonal factors will affect the cash flow of a business.



What can a study of cash flow determine?



Rate of return – the company will be able to assess the efficiency of its operations and purchases and if cash can be better invested in other products or endeavors.

Cash Flow


Liquidity – the company will be able to determine how much cash it will have to respond to unforeseen shifts in the market place, financing, business opportunities and other time sensitive events that apply to the normal operation and long term sustainability of a business.



Risk management – the company will be able to determine if operations, financing or investing is straining the company’s liquidity and will take remedial actions, such as buying back stock to prevent the payment of excessive dividends, or paying employees in stock options rather than salary.



What is a cash flow statement?



The cash flow statement is used to determine how much currency is circulating within the organization at that given point in time.  The final destination of the cash is also noted.  The purpose of a cash flow statement is to demonstrate the flexibility of a business, as even profitable businesses may be limited by restricted cash flow.  Examples of businesses limited by cash flow are businesses that have invested heavily in assets that cannot be readily liquidated.  Many companies will provide cash flow statements to give investors and potential shareholders a picture of the current financial health of the company.



How do I generate a cash flow statement?



A cash flow statement, in its simplest form is a listing of cash flowing in and out of a company at a given point in time.  For example:



Cash Flow Statement for Acme Dynamite Co. (10/1/11 – 11/1/11)



- Cash flow from operations $5,000



- Cash flow from investing ($500)



- Cash flow from financing ($1000)



Net Cash Flow                $3,500



From this statement, we see that Acme Dynamite is very liquid, with a positive cash flow and we can assume the ability to deal with potential issues in the future, or take advantage of investing or expansion opportunities.  For the month, Acme made $5,000 selling its product, invested $500 in researching a better fuse for the dynamite product and paid a total of $1,000 in dividends to shareholders.



In addition to payments made to shareholders, financing activities can include issuing debt, buying back shares of the company and repayment of debts or leases.  Cash flow statements may be more detailed and show specific actions affecting cash flow.  For instance, the $1,000 Acme spent on financing can be broken down in a cash flow statement to show $500 to investors, $200 to repay debts, and $300 to buy back stock.  Cash flow from operations can include cash from customers, as well as payments made on taxes, interest and payroll.