The AIF subject offers a comprehensive and immersive learning experience, combining in-class intensive training in funds management and a weekly Guest Lecture Series featuring industry experts such as Chief Investment Officers, Senior Portfolio Managers, Asset Consultants, Risk Managers, and Financial Analysts. The program is designed to provide students with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in the field of investment management.
- Academic Training: During the first two weeks of the subject, students receive in-depth training in the various aspects of the investment management process and the functional areas of the AIF. This intensive training covers key topics such as asset valuation, portfolio construction, and risk management. By engaging with the course material independently and participating in team discussions and guided activities, students build a strong foundation for their work in the AIF.
- Industry Training: Starting from Week 3, the subject features an Industry Guest Lecturer Series, where practitioners share their invaluable expertise and insights on topics relevant to asset management. These guest lecturers, who represent diverse roles within the fund management industry, expose students to real-world challenges and best practices, while also offering valuable networking opportunities.
Through these lectures and subsequent in-class workshops, students are able to apply their learning to the day-to-day management of the AIF under the close supervision of staff and industry practitioners. This unique and hands-on approach ensures that students gain a well-rounded understanding of asset management and are well-prepared for future career opportunities.
As a member of the Student Managed Fund, you will work alongside a team of dedicated students, faculty, and industry mentors to make investment decisions, analyse markets, and manage risks for the Anchor Investment Fund. This unique hands-on experience will provide you with invaluable insights into the world of asset management, enhancing your career prospects upon graduation.
The UTS Anchor Investment Fund gives selected students the opportunity to take what they have learnt in finance and begin using it in something much closer to a professional investment environment.
Students work with real capital. They research markets and investments, develop asset allocation and portfolio recommendations, assess risk, and present and defend their thinking within the Fund’s governance framework. Investment recommendations are reviewed through an Investment Advisory Committee made up of experienced industry professionals.
But the AIF goes beyond managing a portfolio.
Students learn directly from people working across funds management and the broader financial-services industry, including portfolio managers, CIOs, asset consultants, economists, risk specialists and other practitioners. The aim is to expose students not only to how investment decisions are made, but how they are questioned, communicated and sometimes changed.
That means dealing with uncertainty. Testing assumptions. Understanding the mandate. Thinking about downside and portfolio consequences. Working with others. And being able to explain why a recommendation should be made when somebody across the table is prepared to challenge it.
The AIF is designed to help students move from knowing the theory towards understanding what professional judgement looks like in practice.
The Fund also has a philanthropic purpose. Proceeds help support scholarships and prizes for students at UTS Business School.
By participating in the Student Managed Fund, you will:
- Gain real-world experience in investment management and analysis
- Develop teamwork, leadership, and decision-making skills
- Learn from industry mentors in the asset management and superannuation sectors
- Enhance your resume with a unique and practical learning experience
- Earn academic credit through the subject "Student Managed Fund (25625)"
