UNLV Students Take on the Stock Market: Investment Challenge Heats Up

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.

Daniel Chi, the competition organizer, detailed how the process unfolded across eight weeks.

"We provided them with half a million dollars to invest in actual stocks, genuine options, even real Bitcoin; essentially all elements are authentic apart from the funds themselves, which are digital. Our aim is to educate rather than engage in mere gameplay," Chi stated to 8 News Now.

He mentioned that because of current global events, grasping financial concepts is crucial for safeguarding your means of living, regardless of your age.

"The ambiguities surrounding tariffs, trade wars, and the tensions between other nations and the U.S. make this an ideal moment for individuals to engage and educate themselves," he noted.

UNLV’s President’s Investment Challenge granted the highest-scoring teams up to $4,000 in scholarships. Chi mentioned that due to its achievements this year, the contest will carry on in 2026.

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