Mid level career change from IT to Finance.

Hi all MT members,

I am currently working as senior software engineer in IT industry. I have about 8 years of experience in IT and a Masters from US university. I have always been interested in the Finance sector, mainly stocks, mutual fund analysis and Investment banking. I keep on reading analyst reports , watch a lot of TV shows about stock analysis etc .. Of late, though I have been thinking about making a career change from IT to Finance. I am prepared to take CFA exam, if needed, or at least the charter piece but I just wanted to get some thoughts about possible options. It’s pretty much clear that I have to take an entry level job but will the companies think that I am too old to make the switch and can’t really be molded. Also, is there any way for me to leverage on my IT & Project Management experience and grow into Finance industry after spending some time at an entry level position.

Btw if you haven’t guessed yet, I am in mid 30s, 33 yrs  to be exact !So do you guys think that I might have missed the bus already. I am open to other suggestions as well.
Thanks in advance. I Look forward to your expert opinions..