Students exchange studies for currencies

25 November 2008

Students from BU’s Business School have gained real-life trading experience at a top global financial institution.

Students from BU’s Business School had an amazing opportunity last week to experience life in the financial fast lane by trading places at one of the world’s top institutions.

The annual J.P. Morgan FX Trading Game gave students a real-world opportunity to feel what it's like to win or lose money on the trading floor by engaging in realistic Foreign Exchange Trading. They experienced the fast-paced nature of what it takes to work at J.P. Morgan as they put their skills of nerve, business acumen and communication to the test.

After three rounds of frantic trading, one team was declared the winner with the highest-ever recorded score of $6.5M profit.

BU's team won the contest, led by Laura Smith, Matthew Smith (both third Year BA Business & Finance students) Annabel Williams and Layla D’Monte (third Year LLB Law & Taxation students).

Reflecting upon the valuable experience, Layla D’Monte said: “Trading was extremely fast-paced and exciting and the atmosphere was great. It was a real privilege to take part and demonstrate to J.P. Morgan what we're capable of.”

Matthew Smith added: “The FX Trading Game was a great experience to be a part of – it was very intense and tested us working under pressure. Overall, I had a fantastic time, and I'd recommend it to anyone interested in a career in finance.”

Mark Ridolfo, Course Leader from BU’s Business School said: “Our relationship with J.P. Morgan is vital to our success and to that of our students. We have built up many links with them over the years in areas such as skills training, guest lectures, work shadowing, summer internships, placements and graduate employment.

“The Trading Game presented our students with a unique and exciting opportunity to pit their skills against others, as well as finding out about how world-class organisations operate and the job roles available.”