Financial Analyst Competition Leads to Enriching Conference Experience

Jul 11, 2023

Three students with their conference badges, each in a red lounge chair in front of a graphic blue wall. Pictured are Mira Manchanda, Filip Matic, and Clayton Burton.

Filip Matic ’24 (mathematics, political science, statistics), Mira Manchanda ’25 (mathematics, economics, statistics), Clayton Burton ’23 (economics; science, medicine and society; statistics), and Aryaa Gunavante ‘25 (economics, mathematics) represented Grinnell College at the CFA Institute Research Challenge, a regional student competition in February 2023. Their entry was a case study in financial analysis, including reviewing financial documents and using statistical simulations to do a risk analysis for a company.

After earning second place there, they heard about the Asset and Risk Allocation conference, to take place in early May in Washington, D.C., also hosted by the CFA Institute. “We were convinced that we want to learn more about the financial industry and perhaps meet some stakeholders,” says Matic, and they sought and were awarded funding from the Wilson Center for Innovation and Leadership in order to attend the conference.

They felt prepared by their academic courses at Grinnell College and their entry in the CFA Institute Research Challenge to understand many of the financial models and methods that would be topics at the conference, the theme of which was “Building Resilient Portfolios for the Future.” Burton was also a member in the Pioneer Capital Investment club. Unfortunately, Gunavante was unable to attend the conference due to a schedule conflict.

What Matic, Manchanda, and Burton experienced at the conference will have a lasting impact on them. There were about 6-7 speakers a day, talking about crucial topics in contemporary finance and investing, such as risk management, macroeconomic trends, portfolio construction, and alternative investments. The speakers Matic found most eye-opening left him encouraged “to think differently about financial business and to potentially lead research into future optimizations in the field.”

Manchanda found insight from sessions that “emphasized the use of AI/machine learning to enhance the investment process and the results of the use.” In addition, “speakers and panelists emphasized the need for adaptive and resilient leadership in the face of uncertainty and complexity, as well as the importance of embracing innovation and leveraging technology to create value for clients and stakeholders,” she says.

When Burton learned more about environmental social governance indicators, he realized an investment career can actually align with the values of a Grinnell College education. One thing Burton wants to share with other students at Grinnell, whether thinking about a similar career or managing their own assets, is that having a primary investment focus of social or environmental responsibility and sustainability is possible and will push future practice in the field.

Matic, Manchanda, and an author of children’s books show off three book covers. — Matic and Manchanda at a book signing with the author of the Money Tales series of children’s books.

Another highlight was when they got to meet Jeremy Siegel, one of the top economists in the country and a speaker at the conference. During breaks in the schedule and at the end of the day, the focus switched to networking. Though it was at times nerve-wracking for undergraduate students to initiate a conversation with leaders in the powerful world of finance, the networking sessions were an important part of the experience.

Once Matic overcame his nerves, he found people who shared his research interest of developing better investment simulations. He made many contacts, and the experience has confirmed his intention to work in the industry. He intends to pursue opportunities where he can “engage in cutting-edge projects” and contribute to innovation in financial analysis.

Manchanda came away with several meaningful connections with women in the industry who indicated a willingness to take on mentees. “I was looking forward to meeting and networking with people who have established themselves in the industry; this helped me provide myself a definition for success in the field, which was vague for me before.” She also realized the importance of continuous learning and professional development to stay current in the industry.

Michael Lawrence, director of the Business and Finance Career Community within the Center for Careers, Life, and Service, worked with Burton, Manchanda, and Matic on a follow-up plan to debrief after the conference, write reflections, and share their experience with others at the College.