Tuesday 25 / March / 2025
Muscat: A team of students from the College of Economics and Political Science (CEPS) has won first place in the Investment Research Challenge, qualifying them to compete at the continental level in Asia.
The winning team consists of Asma bint Ali Al-Rawahi, Hiba bint Rashid Al-Mabsali, Muna bint Abdulmonem Al-Shanfari, Al Reem bint Muhanna Al-Muslihi, and Roaa bint Muammar Al- Kathiri.
The team was supervised by Dr. Sri Rama Murthy, Assistant Professor in the Department of Finance at the college.
This annual international competition is one of the most prominent events organised by CFA societies worldwide, including CFA Oman. It aims to enhance students’ financial analysis skills and prepare them for careers in the investment sector by providing a practical experience that simulates real-world equity analysis.
Following this victory, the students have advanced to compete at the Asia level. This year, the competition featured two teams from SQU, two teams from the College of Banking and Financial Studies, and one team from the Modern College of Business and Science.
Asma bint Ali Al Rawahi explained that all participating teams were assigned Omantel for analysis. She stated: “Our team conducted a financial analysis of the company, its sector, and the broader economy to determine whether investing in the company’s shares would be advisable.”
She added: “This experience prepares us for the job market, as financial analysts follow the same approach after graduation—evaluating companies assigned by their employers, conducting comprehensive studies, and making recommendations based on financial analysis.”;
Regarding the benefits of participating in the competition, Asma said: “This experience provides us with practical expertise in stock analysis and financial evaluation, while also enhancing our presentation and financial research skills. It offers opportunities to network with investment professionals, receive guidance from CFA experts, and improve our employment prospects with leading global financial firms.”
The Investment Research Challenge consists of three main stages:
1. Local Qualifiers – Held at the country or regional level under the supervision of the local CFA society.
2. Regional Finals – National winners compete at the continental level.
3. Global Finals – Regional winners compete for the title of world champion.
CFA Oman is the official local affiliate of the CFA Institute in the Sultanate of Oman and a member of the global CFA Society network. The society aims to support investment professionals in Oman, uphold ethical and professional standards, and build a strong financial and investment community.
The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification is one of the most prestigious qualifications in the investment and asset management sector. Awarded by the CFA Institute, it comprises three levels covering financial analysis, asset valuation, and portfolio management.
To obtain the CFA designation, candidates must meet requirements such as holding a bachelor’s degree or having four years of relevant work experience, passing all three levels, and adhering to ethical standards. Known for its rigorous criteria, the CFA certification is a key step in advancing a career in the global financial industry.
