Applications Now Open for Natixis Investment Managers’ 7th Annual Students Challenge Competition

The Students Challenge: A Gateway to Portfolio Management

The highly anticipated 7th edition of The Students Challenge, organized by Natixis Investment Managers, has officially opened for applications. This international virtual portfolio management competition invites students worldwide to simulate managing a portfolio under real market conditions. Launched in 2019, the challenge has garnered attention from over 600 applicants last year, forming about 100 diverse teams. The competition aims to provide a comprehensive learning experience, focusing on key themes such as responsible investing, artificial intelligence, and private assets.

A Unique Learning Experience

Participants will step into the role of a portfolio manager, tasked with managing a substantial virtual portfolio of $100 million from February to April 2027. The competition is designed for master's students in Europe and final-year undergraduates globally. Teams, typically composed of five to six members, will be formed from various backgrounds to enhance the learning experience. Applicants are required to present a strong case during the selection phase, after which around a dozen teams will be chosen to progress.

The challenge operates within a professional framework where participants access tools and resources commonly used in the industry, such as FactSet—an analytics platform—and Morningstar | Sustainalytics, a leading supplier of ESG research. This access allows students to experience real-world working conditions, honing their skills in a practical environment.

Expert Guidance and Support

Throughout the competition, selected teams will receive mentorship from professionals at Natixis IM and affiliated investment firms, including Harris | Oakmark and Loomis Sayles. These mentors will provide crucial guidance, challenge teams on their strategies, and encourage a disciplined approach to portfolio construction. As participants navigate market fluctuations, they will learn to apply theories of responsible investing while integrating their skills with real-time data analytics.

Evaluation Criteria

The evaluation of teams will revolve around three core pillars:
1. ESG Criteria: The environmental, social, and governance factors will heavily influence scores, emphasizing the importance of sustainable investment choices.
2. Artificial Intelligence: Teams must demonstrate the application of AI in their management processes, showcasing their understanding of technology in finance.
3. Private Assets: Reflecting the growing significance of unlisted assets in investment strategies, teams will explore how to incorporate these into their portfolios.

The Prizes and The Final Countdown

In addition to gaining invaluable experience, winning teams will receive a €5,000 prize, with an equal contribution made to a charity of their choice. Finalist teams will also engage in a half-day professional development session, featuring testimonials from Natixis IM employees, workshops focused on transitioning into the workforce, and opportunities for networking.

The culmination of the competition will take place in Paris on June 25, 2027, where finalist teams will present their investment strategies in front of an esteemed international jury. Last year, the competition concluded with a double win for Green Folio—a collaboration between Imperial College London and King’s College London—demonstrating outstanding integration of ESG into traditional financial metrics.

Application Details

Students interested in competing are encouraged to assemble their teams and submit their applications by the November 25th deadline. Regardless of their academic backgrounds, this competition promises to attract a diverse group of aspiring finance professionals eager to make their mark.

For more information and to register, please visit thestudentschallenge.im.natixis.com.

About Natixis Investment Managers

Headquartered in Paris and Boston, Natixis Investment Managers is part of Groupe BPCE, one of France's largest banking entities. With over $1.5 trillion in assets under management, it connects clients with independent managers focused on high-conviction active investment strategies. The firm is dedicated to delivering diverse investment solutions tailored to meet clients' long-term objectives, reflecting the evolving landscape of global finance.

With such a significant opportunity for students to engage with the financial community, The Students Challenge by Natixis IM exemplifies the blend of academic learning and practical experience vital for the next generation of investment professionals.