The Auburn Student Investment Fund (ASIF) was founded in the fall of 2017 to provide ambitious, intellectually curious students with a deeper understanding of financial markets through real-world security analysis and portfolio management. The Fund emphasizes hands-on, practical experience in valuation techniques, equity research, and risk management.
ASIF’s portfolio includes individual equities, savings deposits earning 4%, and alternative investments selected by students under the guidance of faculty advisors. Members develop investment theses by conducting in-depth research and building financial models, culminating in formal investment recommendations.
Beyond its primary goal of student education, the Fund also aims to outperform the Russell 1000 Value Index and maximize returns on invested capital.
When selecting positions, the Fund seeks exceptional investments with manageable risk. Pitch criteria include identifying opportunities with exposure to large and growing markets, a competitive edge over peers, sustainable profitability, a strong balance sheet, and attractive cash flow generation.
The Fund follows a value-oriented approach, targeting undervalued investments with the potential for steady appreciation and resilience across various market conditions.
ASIF’s Executive Council consists of a Chief Investment Officer, two Portfolio Managers, and a Director of New Member Development. Together, these students oversee new member training, maintain communication with advisors, and manage day-to-day portfolio operations. Fund members are organized into eight sector teams based on individual interests. Each sector is led by a Director and supported by 2–4 Analysts.
The Integrated Financial Leadership Program (IFLP), which houses both ASIF and the Auburn Financial Management Association (FMA), includes 4 advanced classes: Advanced Financial Modeling, ASIF 1 – Advanced Security Analysis, ASIF 2 – Advanced Portfolio Management, and Advanced Investments. Completing this sequence offers students practical, hands-on experience not offered through the typical finance curriculum, as well as 12 hours of course credit.
ASIF and FMA are part of an integrated program that accepts applications once a year, at the start of the spring semester. Applications open on December 1 of each year and interviews are held in January. Please refer to the FMA website for more information: https://www.auburnfma.com/