Perfect Pitch: Conquering the Equity Research Challenge

Soh Ye Kai, a recent Diploma in Accountancy graduate who is now pursuing the Bachelor of Accounting and Finance at SEGi University, has achieved an impressive milestone after emerging as Second Runner-up in a highly competitive equity research challenge held at Sunway University.

Organised by Sunway Business and Investment Society (SBIS) and sponsored by Crewstone Investment International and Singular Asset Management, the competition brought together 24 teams from various institutions, all tasked with pitching a stock from the S&P 500 as a BUY recommendation over the next 12 to 18 months. The challenge required participants to analyse industry outlooks, financial performance, catalysts for growth, and stock valuation models.

Soh and his teammates selected Stryker, a leading medical device company, citing its sustained growth rate, strong fundamentals, and promising future outlook. Their analysis covered the company’s background, industry trends, growth catalysts, and valuation projections, forming a comprehensive equity pitch aligned with real-world investment standards.

Following the release of the case on 15 September, the team worked intensively over two weeks to prepare for the presentation held on 29 September. Each group was allotted 10 minutes to deliver their pitch, followed by a 5-minute Q and A session with the judging panel.

Their clarity, confidence, and well-researched insights propelled them into the top five finalists, where they later secured Third Place overall.

Reflecting on the experience, Soh described the competition as both exciting and nerve-wracking.

“I felt nervous because I needed to present perfectly in front of the judges and the public. But I was really happy that I managed to deliver my points clearly. I enjoyed the entire process because it allowed me to learn more about financial analysis,” he shared.

He also expressed deep appreciation for his teammates, acknowledging their effort, commitment, and teamwork throughout the challenge.

Soh credits his achievement to the guidance and knowledge gained from SEGi’s Faculty of Business, Accountancy and Law (FOBAL).

“My faculty really helped me during the competition. I sought advice from my lecturer Mr. Muslim, and I applied what I learned from my other lecturer Ms. Shantiny’s financial classes during the competition. I really appreciate them as they provided me the support when I need it,” he said.

Although the team narrowly missed the championship title, Soh views the experience as a stepping stone rather than a setback. The insights gained, coupled with the constructive feedback received from industry judges, have strengthened the team’s determination to return stronger in future competitions.

With his strong foundation in finance and growing experience in real-world analytical challenges, Soh continues to set a positive example for fellow SEGi students, demonstrating how academic learning, practical exposure, and perseverance can open doors to meaningful achievements.