Becoming a Hedge Fund Analyst: Inside Point72 Academy

Join our host, a former senior analyst with a PhD in STEM, as she talks with our investment analysts about how they transitioned from STEM fields to finance through the Point72 Academy—learning to build investment theses, analyze market trends, and make decisions with incomplete information.  Learn more at point72.com/point72-academy

Steve Cohen, CEO of Point72 and a titan in the investing world, shares his wisdom on cultivating future talent in finance. He discusses the innovative Point72 Academy, designed to nurture analytical skills and growth through structured programs. Steve emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, humility, and the ability to learn from mistakes. He also reflects on balancing his busy roles and fostering a culture of knowledge sharing among analysts, making connections that enhance both personal and professional fulfillment.

Steve Cohen, founder and CEO of Point72 and owner of the New York Mets, shares his journey from options trading to leading a $36 billion hedge fund. He emphasizes the mindset required for successful investing and the importance of continuous learning. Listeners will discover the key philosophies that underpin great investment strategies and the necessity of cultivating talent through mentorship and diverse perspectives. Cohen draws parallels between investing and athletic dedication, highlighting the value of passion, discipline, and self-awareness in achieving excellence.

Emily Warren, a Point72 Academy Summer Intern from MIT, shares her journey in finance and computer science. She discusses the immersive experience of the eight-week internship with insights on working in investing teams. Tips for aspiring candidates about interviews are highlighted, along with her understanding of the impact of AI in infrastructure investments. The importance of mentorship and collaboration is emphasized, as Emily reflects on personal growth and authenticity during her transformative journey in the finance world.

Insights on hiring analysts and portfolio managers, emphasizing qualities like motivation, grit, and self-awareness. Exploring career progression, analyst responsibilities, and the hiring process at Point72. Focus on cultivating excellence, mentorship, and long-term commitment in investing careers.

Discover how a diverse cohort of analysts is shaped through unique training in global markets. Hear personal journeys of individuals navigating a competitive recruitment process and their enriching internships. Learn about the collaborative culture across offices in Hong Kong, London, and Tokyo, where mentorship and networking thrive. Gain insights into the importance of continuous learning and the value of diverse perspectives in investment analysis. Plus, find essential advice for aspiring analysts eager to make their mark in finance.

Learn about the essential qualities for success as a hedge fund analyst, including curiosity, ongoing learning, and the coaching program. Discover unconventional paths to investing and the importance of essential skills like passion for stocks and constant self-challenge. Embrace uncertainty, continuous learning, and collaboration for success in the field, and explore the foundations of business analysis and the significance of reading habits for analysts.

How does an Academy Associate earn an analyst seat? Jean Horenstein, an investment coach for the Point72 Academy, asks one of our PMs and two of his analysts about why they chose each other as teammates and how to stand out during PM rotations.

Learn about the competitive application process, tips for standing out in the Point72 Academy, and the significance of independent investing. Hear from Martin, Cherry, and Victor on their unique paths to discovering a passion for investing. Explore the preparation process for the summer internship and the essential skills needed for a successful career in hedge fund analysis.

Former analyst turned senior faculty member Jean Horenstein discusses designing curriculum for analysts, understanding market narratives, and the value of diverse backgrounds at Point72 Academy. The podcast also includes reflections on the Academy program, attributes that set analysts apart, and the importance of critical thinking, narrative-number connection, and diverse hiring in stock analysis.