Members of the Nevada Student Investment Organization (NISO) demonstrated their knowledge of the financial world when they participated in the Rotman International Trading Competition (RITC) last month. They placed eighth out of 52 world teams. The RITC is a prestigious international trade competition that invites over 50 countries to compete.
The intensive weekend of challenges featured a variety of case studies ranging from options and liquidity – how easily an asset, such as stocks or bonds, can be bought or sold in the market – to algorithmic trading that is the method of trading financial assets using computer algorithms to automatically execute transactions.
NSIO members representing the University of Nevada, Reno passed the three days of financial strategy challenges and emerged as qualified contenders on the international stage. The competition tested the analytical skills of the participants and provided a unique platform for networking and knowledge exchange between students and professionals in the financial industry.
“Five years ago I initiated this endeavor, but what really sets this year apart is the inclusion of NSIO,” said Professor Dongjoon Lee. “The majority of participants being members of the club brought the students together, creating a sense of togetherness and teamwork that was second to none.”
For more than six years, university students have competed in the Rotman International Business Competition in close partnership between the faculty of the College of Business and the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto. NSIO stands out as the university’s premier club dedicated to educating students in trading and investing, which is why members of the organization are elected each year to represent the University of Toronto.
NSIO President Antonio Arelanes said: “My team and I put considerable effort into planning the most streamlined communication methods for race days, creating code words that only we could decipher to maintain an edge during the trading sessions. The six members of the University team delegated assigned tasks according to our individual areas of commercial expertise. Some of us provided guidance based on technical analysis, while others handled the implementation of Python scripts for algorithmic trading cases.
In 2024, the Rotman International Trade Competition (RITC) celebrated its 20th anniversary at the University of Toronto’s renowned Rotman School of Management. In this important event, the participation of the University of Nevada, Reno, illustrates the caliber of the university’s programs and the unwavering support provided by the faculty. This global endeavor underscores the University’s commitment to fostering a dynamic learning environment and its dedication to empowering students with real-world experiences.
Students Antonio Arelanes, Joshua Palabay, Nicholas Liner, Andy Bhanver, Ryan McNeil and Noah Holliday not only competed with honors on behalf of the university at the 20th annual RITC, but also embarked on a journey of self-discovery. Beyond the confines of the trading floor, the team tackled challenges that tested their financial understanding and their resilience, teamwork and adaptability.
Looking ahead, the university looks forward to the next NEIO competition. With their recent success as inspiration, the university looks forward to seeing how the team prepares and excels in the future. Supported by faculty and the university community, NSIO embodies persistence and innovation, promising even greater achievements.
