University of Southern California ◆ Student Investment Group
Learn to think like an asset manager.
USC's first macro-focused investment group. We study markets top-down — the way the world's largest asset managers do — and put it into practice with a simulated cross-asset portfolio measured against the classic 60/40 benchmark.
Preparing students for a career in investment management.
We aim to give students the skills needed to pursue a career in the investment management industry.
The USC Asset Management Group is the first club on campus built around a macro, top-down approach to publicly traded assets — how institutional managers actually invest, not pitch-style stock picking.
Workshops
A semester-long curriculum: Markets 101, the business cycle, fiscal and monetary policy, stocks, bonds, and cross-asset translation.
Simulated Portfolio
A $1M simulated account spanning equities, sovereign debt, foreign currencies, and commodities — asset classes with distinct return drivers, positioned to perform across a range of economic conditions against a 60/40 benchmark.
Speakers
Exclusive events with industry professionals — Spring 2026 featured Dr. Emmanuel Sharef, EVP & Portfolio Manager at PIMCO.
What you get as a member.
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◆Workshops & training
Weekly curriculum sessions on markets, the economy, fiscal and monetary policy, stocks, bonds, commodities, and currencies — no prior experience assumed.
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◆Exclusive speaker events
Industry professionals from leading asset managers — Spring 2026 featured a PIMCO EVP and portfolio manager.
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◆Career development
The asset management industry landscape — firms, functions, internship paths, and salary ranges.
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◆A collaborative community
For students interested in long-term investing, macro understanding, and fiduciary thinking.
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◆Room to lead
E-Board applications open each spring — plus analyst and marketing roles, help with coding and Excel in Portfolio Lab, and industry research and white papers. PM roles are filled as they become available.
What we're working toward.
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01
Education & Exposure
Introduce members to the fundamentals of asset management, multi-asset investing, and risk-adjusted decision-making through workshops and simulations.
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02
Practical Application
Operate a structured two-tier program where members design, manage, and present simulated portfolios under real-world constraints.
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03
Professional Development
Provide resume workshops and alumni networking focused on careers in institutional and wealth management.
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04
Community Building
Foster a collaborative environment where students of all backgrounds can develop the skills and confidence to pursue careers in investment management.
Ready to get involved?
New members are always welcome — no prior finance experience needed. Apply to Portfolio Lab for a hands-on role in our simulated portfolio, or join as a general member.