1st

Before the official competition started, we received materials to help us learn about what investing is and what different types of investing are. These resources were instrumental in building my foundation knowledge and preparing us to create a strategy. As a team, we started to come up with a different strategy, analyze our clients, and divide our roles to ensure everyone contributed effectively. My role was to research and invest in bonds. At first, I didn't know much about bonds, and I found them to be very risky investments, due to the perceived risks, such as interest rate fluctuations. However, our group strategy was to allocate 30% of our budget to bonds as a way to stabilize the portfolio and balance risk with return. 

2nd 

After researching and learning more about their risks and benefits, I shared my findings with my teammates. We compared several options and, after some calculation, assessed moderate levels of risk. We decided to invest in the T-BOND 6.625% (15-Feb-2027) because it offers an interest rate of 6.625%, allowing us to earn more yield and stabilize our portfolio. With a maturity of just three years, this bond gives us some protection against interest rate fluctuation while providing a consistent return.

These decisions marked a turning point for me, as I began to understand the practical application of theoretical concepts that I had learned about. Collaborating in this decision-making process also taught me the importance of thorough research and how to weigh risks and returns carefully. 

3rd

As the competition progressed, I realized how much I had learned about bonds. Initially, I found bonds risky because I didn't fully understand how they worked, but through research and collaboration, I became more confident in analyzing their benefits and risks. Working together, we evaluated various options and discussed how different bonds could fit into our strategy to balance risk and return. This collaboration not only improved our portfolio but also taught me the importance of listening to different perspectives when making financial decisions. 

Reflecting on this journey so far, I have learned a lot about different investment strategies and bonds. I’m excited to see how our performance and our decision align with our client's goal. Moving forward, I hope to apply what I have learned to real investing in the future.