When did your interest in financial markets start?
My interest in financial markets started in high school, through a business studies class where I got my first exposure through a trading simulation competition. I was intrigued at how opportunity could be forged almost anywhere and how markets continue to evolve, continuously introducing new challenges to overcome and opportunities to realise. My interest has only continued to grow since joining Northstar.
What did you study and why?
I completed a BBusSci majoring in finance and accounting for my undergraduate degree where I gained a well-rounded knowledge of firms and financial markets from an auditing perspective. As my interest in financial markets grew, I continued to study further and completed an MComm specialising in risk management of financial markets which expanded on my undergraduate studies but with a much stronger quantitative analysis component.
What do you think equips you to do this job properly?
I have a natural curiosity and analytical mindset that’s well suited for a research led investment process. I feel these skills are key in being able to identify opportunities and risks, process information systematically, and execute in an informed and unbiased manner. Since joining Northstar I have been able to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of my analysis which is key for consistent decision making in a rapidly evolving market.
What do you love about investing?
II love the dynamic nature of markets and the deep insight gained on companies and industries that shape our environment. Markets continuously keep me on my toes and I’m encouraged to continue to develop. Throughout this process I enjoy being able to gain meaningful insight and use it to try piece together where companies and industries are heading and where opportunities may lie.
What do you find the most challenging part of your role to be?
It can be a challenge to distinguish structural versus temporary market changes and to manage one’s emotions through these changes. Constructing a long-term view into an unpredictable future requires following a robust process, continually interrogate key aspects of the investment case, and process information in an analytical and unbiased way. The collaborative nature of the investment process here at Northstar ensures we are able to avoid these challenges if and when they may occur, enabling effective and unbiased decision making on a consistent basis.
Why do you think clients will do well at Northstar?
Over and above the team’s focus on delivering quality service and superior performance there is a true fixation around our investment process that remains key in producing high quality investment decisions. Markets can be as cruel as they are kind and while we work to ensure clients enjoy as much upside potential as possible, clients can be assured that this doesn’t come at the expense of taking on excessive risk.