LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – At just 19 years old, UNLV Junior Sehaj Singh enjoys trading stocks as his fascination has now become a hobby.
When the opportunity came along to participate in UNLV’s first-ever President’s Investment Challenge, he and several other students jumped on board to get a first-hand look at the campus-wide investment competition.
Singh told 8 News Now that when investing in stocks, it’s vital to understand what business you are investing your money in and don’t be afraid to start small. Investing small amounts frequently can add up over time.
For him, he told 8 News Now, it is all about investing in stocks he likes.
“Finance is something that is going to follow you your entire life and being able to understand it well and being able to know what stocks you are holding. You should know how much you have and how much you owe and be ready for the future,” Singh shared.
Also, a good way to start is through your company’s retirement plan. It’s a personalized way to get you started before investing in other companies. With the overall understanding that the process has its ups and downs and patience is advised.
“Being well-versed and knowing that the market isn’t going to be up every year. 2024 was one of the most amazing years in capital markets, but you can’t have that every year,” he added.
In total, 227 students participated in UNLV’s, President’s Investment Challenge, forming 84 teams with six finalists who battled it out Monday. Presenting their final approach and strategies, and ultimately three teams won with Singh’s team coming in first place.
Competition organizer Daniel Chi explained how the process worked over 8 weeks.
“We gave them half a million dollars to invest in real stocks and real options, real bitcoin, everything is real except for the money, so it’s electronic money, and we are training them so it’s not a game, but an educational experience,” Chi told 8 News Now.
He also shared that due to what is happening in the world right now, understanding money is of the utmost importance in protecting one’s livelihood, no matter what age you are.
“The uncertainties with the tariffs and trade wars and the tension between other countries and the U.S have made this a prime time for people to get involved and learn,” he added.
UNLV’s President’s Investment Challenge awarded the top-performing teams up to $4,000 in scholarships. Chi shared that with its success this year, they will continue the competition in 2026.
