Students gain stock exchange investment insight

A partnership between Leeds Beckett University and Redmayne Bentley has given students the opportunity to develop their knowledge of investment management.

Now in its 13th year, the annual Student Investment Club competition sees students from the University’s Leeds Business School set up not-for-profit investment clubs, each with £100,000 of virtual money to invest and manage in the stock market.

Teams of students build their virtual portfolios across multiple sectors over five weeks with the aim of increasing the value of their portfolios.

"The project allows students to develop commercial awareness and teamwork skills, while gaining an insight into investment management as a potential career path and is greatly valued by our students." Lois Hargreaves BSc MSc ACA, Senior Lecturer, Leeds Beckett University.

This year, a total of 86 students took part, forming 22 teams. Team Ezipizy were the winners, making a 4.37% return over a 5-week trading period. The team’s Portfolio was valued at £104,367.80 at the close of trading on the final day.

Rachel Scarf, Senior Compliance Officer and Leeds Beckett Alumni, who has been involved in the running of the competition for several years, said: “It is really rewarding to be part of this project and share our knowledge and experience with students at Leeds Beckett University.

“Our partnership with the university offers an opportunity for students to gain valuable insight and knowledge about investing in the stock market, including the factors that can influence market impacts and fluctuations.”

Please note the value of investments and any income derived from them may go down as well as up and you could get back less than you invested.