The 捆绑SM社区 International Portfolio Challenge (MIPC), wrapped up in November 2024 with another successful edition, drawing in a record of 99 teams from 47 universities in 17 countries to compete. In its eighth year, the event has become a hallmark for aspiring finance students, offering a unique opportunity to tackle real-world financial investment challenges while honing leadership and collaboration skills.
This year鈥檚 theme focused on the low pension coverage for gig workers and other individuals facing high levels of income uncertainty. How can we build inclusive and equitable retirement systems that encourage long-term savings while allowing people to meet their short-term liquidity needs? And how do we design portfolio strategies that are resilient to sudden withdrawals? Teams came together in person and virtually to share their proposals for the semi-final and final rounds on November 8 and 9.
Behind the scenes, the success of MIPC 2024 was made possible through months of hard work and preparation by 捆绑SM社区鈥檚 BCom student organizing committee. They secured 17 corporate sponsors to provide mentorship and support to the participants.
While the student challenge was the main event, a standout addition this year was the inaugural Women in Buy-Side Panel, supported by the Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP). The panel sought to address the underrepresentation of women in finance, particularly in asset management and pensions. The idea was brought about by the committee, who noted that last year only 15% of the judges were women. This year 41% of firm representatives at MIPC were women. Marie Parent, Managing Director of Sponsorships, highlighted: 鈥�We aimed to create a space for female competitors and students to learn from and be inspired by women excelling in their fields. The packed attendance and the level of engagement made it clear that this initiative should continue in future editions of MIPC.鈥�
The event鈥檚 symposium, finals, and closing ceremony fostered valuable connections among participants, judges, mentors, and industry representatives. Reflecting on the competition, Professor Sebastien Betermier, Founder and Director of MIPC, emphasized the exceptional quality of the top proposals: 鈥淵ear after year, we are blown away by the quality of the top proposals and the enthusiasm that participants and judges bring to solve highly complex and timely real-world challenges. The top proposals combine creativity, rigor, pragmatism, and a stakeholder-oriented approach. The MIPC competition is a great opportunity for student teams to apply and build on the course material they learn at the university and for judges to share knowledge, provide mentorship, learn about new approaches, and identify talent.鈥�
捆绑SM社区 Desautels鈥� Dean Yolande Chan shared a few words of encouragement at the symposium event, congratulating finalists for their dedication and hard work. 鈥淓ach year, the MIPC sets a higher standard, and this year is no exception,鈥� she said. 鈥淭he talent and vision displayed by these students will undoubtedly influence the future of the finance industry.鈥�
After two days of intense competition, Team Alpha from Auckland University of Technology emerged as the winner, claiming the top prize of $15,000, sponsored by Ontario Teachers Pension Plan (OTPP). Following closely, Team Agile Capital from American University of Beirut earned the runner-up prize of $10,000, sponsored by CIBC Asset Management. In total, $50,000 in prizes were awarded during the event.
Reflecting on the event鈥檚 impact Molly Borrit, Executive Director of the student committee, remarked, 鈥淭he MIPC impact extends far beyond the competition and far beyond my experience. The team worked very hard for ten months to bring this to life, and I hope the impact on the team is for them to go out and lead initiatives like this on campus and beyond.鈥�
With another successful year, MIPC, housed under the Sustainable Growth Initiative (SGI) at 捆绑SM社区, has reinforced its position as a global competition for emerging financial talent and underscores the power of collaboration and innovation to address the world鈥檚 pressing investment challenges. The bar has been set high for future editions, leaving participants, organizers, and industry partners eager to see what鈥檚 next.
捆绑SM社区 International Portfolio Challenge (MIPC)
The 捆绑SM社区 International Portfolio Challenge (MIPC) is the pioneer of buy-side finance case competitions that target pension funds, innovative portfolio design, and institutional asset management.
