Institute of Advanced Investment Management
Masters Student Investment Fund
Fund Overview
Established in August 2024 at the David Eccles School of Business, the Masters Student Investment Fund (MSIF) provides graduate students with a unique opportunity to apply academic theory in a real-world investing environment. The fund manages over $1.1 million in assets, offering hands-on experience in portfolio management, market research, and investment decision-making. Through a rigorous and collaborative program structure, students sharpen their analytical and communication skills, presenting strategies to industry professionals and bridging the gap between classroom concepts and professional practice.
Mission
At MSIF is designed to blend cutting-edge academic theory with real-world investment practices. Our goal is to equip graduate students with a deep understanding of how to manage investment endowments by employing the latest tools in investing and portfolio management. The MSIF program transcends conventional financial education by honing vital career skills like advanced teamwork, effective presentation, and strong leadership. A key aspect of our curriculum is the focus on investing, preparing students for prominent roles in investment and portfolio management.
Curricular Structure
- Macro News: Each week, selected students will provide a succinct overview of the latest macroeconomic developments, offering insights into how these can impact the financial markets.
- Portfolio News: Students will actively engage in the development, testing, and real-time application of trading strategies. Each week, a chosen student will present a comprehensive portfolio update. This update will not only evaluate the current performance of the portfolio but also consider potential strategic enhancements and necessary rebalances.
- Investment Strategy Presentations: Throughout the year, student teams develop and pitch four original investment strategies—covering fundamental, systematic, and macro-based approaches. Each is evaluated by peers acting as the Investment Committee, based on research quality, performance potential, and diversification value. Treated as real investment pitches, presentations are judged on clarity, rigor, professionalism, and defense during Q&A. Final decisions are made by the team through a vote on implementation.
- Fund Management: Beyond investing, students take responsibility for the operational and strategic functions required to run the fund. This includes recruiting, marketing, accounting, reporting, and overseeing the fund’s technology and communication platforms.