ASL Market Research Club hosts a variety of events. We have had intense stock debates, discussions, lessons about stock evaluations, and have fostered participation in some of the most prestigious high school investment competitions worldwide. Here are a few of the many spectacular events our club organizes.
Rise of Retail Investors Discussion
In this meeting, members discussed the rise of retail investors since COVID and their growing influence on the stock market. Following the discussion, we watched parts of Dumb Money, which provided valuable insights into the GameStop case and how a group of Reddit investors and a YouTuber accomplished something unprecedented.
Geopolitics & Tariffs Discussion
Members caught up with the latest news during a presentation on how tariffs will impact the global economy, including both their potential benefits and drawbacks.
Afterward, members discussed the impact on the U.S. manufacturing sector and the flow of foreign investment into the country.
To conclude the meeting, members analyzed BYD, a Chinese company that focuses on EV manufacturing. Some members felt it was a great opportunity due to its strong financials, but most were uncertain about its stability due to EV competition, geopolitical tensions, and legal challenges.
Wolves of Wall Street Competition
Members of ASL Market Research Club also competed in the Wolves of Wall Street Investment Competition. Before the competition, all members received a financial terms guide from Harvard Business School, which they found extremely helpful in developing their business strategies. Specifically, members found the financial analysis formulas useful for understanding income statements and reviewing balance sheets when analyzing businesses and corporations.
The Wharton High School Investment Competition 2024
The Wharton High School Investment Competition is a three-month-long, team-based simulated investment challenge in which students manage a $100,000 virtual portfolio and submit two portfolio analysis reports. Club members valued the opportunity to participate in the competition. Otto Skibeli ('27), a member of the competing team, shared that "the competition was an extremely enriching experience, pushing us to think critically, collaborate effectively, and grow beyond our limits."
During the trading period from September 30, 2024 to December 6, 2024, the team’s portfolio grew by 7.30%. Compared to the S&P 500, which grew by 5.69%, they achieved an alpha of 1.61%. The portfolio was well-diversified, featuring companies across various sectors, including Industrials, Information Technology, Consumer Staples, Utilities, Real Estate, Consumer Discretionary, and Communication Services.
Lesson on Stock Analysis
During this meeting, members explored how to assess a stock's performance by analyzing key financial metrics. They examined fundamental concepts such as P/E ratios, dividend yields, market capitalization, revenue, net income, and more, using Apple (AAPL) as a case study. Members were also given the handout attached.
Getting Smart with Money
Club members enjoyed watching the Netflix show Get Smart with Money, a documentary that follows individuals from different backgrounds who struggle with money. They receive guidance from financial experts to improve their financial habits, build wealth, and achieve financial freedom. Before watching the documentary, members were given the handout attached to the right to learn about the value of investing over time.