Which is better and has more credibility, a Chartered Accountancy or a Chartered Financial Analyst certification program?

No doubt finance field is the best as far as I know. CFA is just a heaven. I am also going for CFA after completing my CA and MBA. Most of the highly paid jobs are given to Finance students, be it MBA, CA, or CFA. And after all it is a matter of interest where you want to go. For accountancy, go for CA as you don't have good finance background. But if you want to save time, go for CFA. It can be completed in 18 months and rest 4 years' training can be done during job

CFA has "value" only and only if you are already in Investment banking profile. Its just an add-on. Many big companies avoid hiring CFA L-2 cleared guys with no experience because they will not prove to be an add on for them. CA on the other hand, is the entry level for finance in india. If you're a CA and in IB, you can multiply your value by pursuing CFA. However, recently many people are getting into IB after clearing CFA L3. In my opinion, CFA is suggested only if you have the time, will and money to pursue it till the end and at the same time be patient with it. Hope this helps.