When did your interest in financial markets start?
My passion for finance started in my matric year but really ignited in my first year of University when I took a more active interest in personal investments. This led me to altering my career path early on by changing from studying majors in history, economics and law to economics and finance after my first year at the University of Cape Town (UCT). Since then I have not looked back and my passion for understanding the mechanics of financial markets continues to grow.
What did you study and why?
I studied economics honours and then decided to further my passion for financial markets by studying finance masters. I really enjoyed the way economics provided me with a base with which to understand human behaviour and decision making particularly when it comes to financial decisions both rational and irrational. I loved learning how different aspects of the economy and financial markets are interlinked and impact each other.
What do you think equips you to do this job properly?
I am a very analytical and detail orientated person which I believe enables me to derive conclusions based on well thought out analysis. I believe my ability to remain calm and not get attached to my investment recommendations helps me to remain as objective as one can possibly be which is critical in a profession filled with emotional decision making. I also believe that my ability to deal with uncertainty and adversity allows me to thrive in a role that is constantly subjected to an ever changing and unpredictable environment.
What do you love about investing?
I love that the investing environment is both very dynamic and challenging. As an analyst, I am continuously learning and trying to piece together how multiple different component parts affect each other and the investment thesis as a whole. Being an analyst is like trying to solve a continuously changing puzzle which is very stimulating. What do you find the most challenging part of your role? The most challenging aspect of being an equity analyst is having to deal with a constantly changing environment and ensuring that one makes the most informed recommendations in the face of increasing amounts of information, most of which can be irrelevant market noise. The fact that our decisions can have massive consequences for the livelihoods of our clients adds to the pressure of being an analyst – this is why we take our roles so seriously!
Why do you think clients will do well at Northstar?
In my time at Northstar I have learnt that there is a very client centric culture whereby every decision and action we make on a daily basis involves placing our clients first and foremost. In addition, Northstar fosters a research rich environment that allows analysts to do their jobs to the best of their abilities which ultimately benefits Northstar clients.