Griffith Business School is launching Queensland’s largest Student Investment Fund.
Providing students with unparalleled hands-on experience, the fund is worth $250,000 and will be invested in socially responsible, ASX listed companies.
“Griffith has a strong commitment to the environment, social justice and good governance,” said Associate Professor Robert Bianchi.
“The Fund will make investments in companies that exhibit those three characteristics.”
The opportunity to be part of the Student Investment Fund will be offered to outstanding third year Bachelor of Commerce students, as well as postgraduate finance students.
Industry-standard experience
Fund managers will make use of Griffith’s state-of-the-art Trading Rooms, which are equipped with 24 Bloomberg terminals.
“Bloomberg is used by investment professionals worldwide, so it’s the closest thing we’ll get to on-the-job experience, in the classroom,” said Bachelor of Commerce student Enoch Pun.
Associate Professor Bianchi said providing access to real funds and live data was crucial to ensuring the Griffith Business School students of today are well equipped to lead investment into the future.
“Lots of universities use programs to simulate a market environment,” he explained. “However, research shows that students make decisions taking into account that the money isn’t real.”
“Our Student Investment Fund provides an authentic learning experience that includes a hands-on education, managing Griffith University funds.”
The students will be closely mentored by a dedicated Investment Committee made up of expert Griffith staff and industry professionals, giving them the opportunity to learn from leaders in the banking, finance and credit analysis fields.
Enhancing Griffith Business School’s vision
Professor David Grant, Pro Vice Chancellor (Business), said the Fund encompassed Griffith Business School’s vision to advance innovative and socially responsible business education in Australia and its region.
“We believe it’s important that we give our students opportunities to improve their employability, by taking part in experiences in the classroom that reflect the workplace,” he said.
“We’re setting up a Fund that will demonstrate to the rest of the world that we strive to provide our students with that practical experience, but it’s also a Fund that will yield returns to be used in positive ways.”
Professor Grant said the Fund would only enhance Griffith University’s reputation for producing high-quality graduates.
All profits from the Student Investment Fund will be reinvested into student scholarships and its financial statements will be available publicly.
What the experts are saying
“The Student Investment Fund provides a valuable opportunity for students to get hands on experience in investing. There are complex considerations involved in making good investment decisions and the best way to learn is ‘on-the-job’. Employers will know GriffithBusiness School graduates are ready to hit the ground running and truly understand the consequences of their investment decisions.” – SusanRallings, Senior Vice President at Morgan Stanley Wealth Management
“Funds such as the Student Investment Fund are invaluable as education tools to equip the next wave of investment leaders for careers in banking, finance and investment management.” – Michael Pennisi, Chief Executive Officer, Q Super
“The Student Investment Fund enhances Griffith Business School’s reputation for producing industry-ready graduates.The practical, hands-on experience from an initiative like this is invaluable to any future employer.” – Ken Howard, Morgans Stockbrokers