ATLANTA, GEORGIA – Winthrop University’s team of talented finance students was the only one selected in South Carolina to advance and compete in the recent CFA Southern Classic Research Challenge.
Yi (Shirley) Shen, assistant professor of finance, led the team, which included Matthew Funderburk, Sara Ibrahim, Marcelli Pedroso (team lead) and Amelie Tolf.
An annual global competition that offers university students practical training in financial analysis and professional ethics, the CFA Institute Research Challenge invites teams of three to five students to conduct in-depth research and analysis of a publicly traded company, culminating in a comprehensive research report with an investment recommendation. This year’s chosen company was Carter’s Inc., a designer and marketer of children’s apparel.
Ibrahim took on sole presentation duties at the March 1 finals.
“From deep financial analysis to valuation modeling and investment recommendations, the experience is as intense as it is rewarding,” Ibrahim said. “This journey sharpened my analytical, presentation and critical thinking skills in ways I never imagined. Every late night spent analyzing financial statements, stress-testing valuation models and perfecting my presentation skills led to this incredible moment. This challenge reaffirmed my passion for finance and investment analysis,” Ibrahim continued, “and I look forward to taking these skills to the next level.”
“She did an amazing job,” Shen said. “This is only our second year participating in the CFA Challenge, so I feel very positive about future competitions!”
As the student team’s faculty mentor, Shen: oversaw the team and offered ongoing support throughout the competition; ensured that students had a solid understanding of the analytical techniques necessary for the competition; and collaborated with an assigned industry professional who offered real-world insights and guidance to the team.
How did the process unfold?
Funderburk, Ibrahim, Pedroso and Tolf joined forces in October 2024.
The team analyzed Carter’s Inc. by joining a conference call with the company and conducting thorough research, which included financial analysis, valuation and assessment of industry positioning, and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) practices.
The team compiled the research into a detailed report and submitted it this past January.
For more information, contact Nicole Chisari, social media manager, at chisarin@winthrop.edu or 803/323-2403.
