CFA Institute Research Challenge

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The CFA Institute Research Challenge is an annual global competition that provides university students with hands-on mentoring and intensive training in financial analysis and professional ethics. Students gain real-world experience by assuming the role of a research analyst.  Each team of 3-5 students produces a through report that includes a buy, sell, or hold recommendation and presents to a panel of judges.   

Mason is looking to organize one or two teams. 

Participating is a great opportunity for anyone who’s interested in investment banking, portfolio management, or pursuing a position in any sector of the financial field that’s especially competitive or highly sought after. It’s a great learning experience.  Anyone who’s currently a student at Mason (and who hasn’t competed in the Research Challenge previously) is eligible (including those who will graduate in December).  

The Mason teams will be competing in the DC/Baltimore local level. Rosters are due October 17. There will be a kick-off meeting on October 21 (via Zoom and that will be recorded) and the competition will officially start shortly thereafter.  Presentations will take place on February 10 in Baltimore. More information can be found at the CFA Institute website

Lastly, students who participate are eligible to take a 1-credit, Mason-Impact course (FNAN 488, Applied Equity Research) during the first part of the spring term. This course would allow students to receive some academic credit for their participation and be eligible for some support for additional research and travel. The course would be noted on the student’s transcript and be part of their official record. 

If the Research Challenge sounds like something you’d be interested in, please contact Dr. Steve Pilloff (spilloff@gmu.edu), associate professor of finance at the George Mason University School of Business.  Dr. Pilloff can answer any questions and provide the next steps of the process.  

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