In a group discussion session regarding career options between  MBA and MCA students argument was whether to choose computers or information technology as preferred option over the management or finance. Everyone was having strong views and points to turn the table in their favour whether to join Google, a technological marvel or the Goldman Sachs a financial powerhouse. Whether to join  Infosys, an Indian IT superstar or ICICI Bank in the case of Indian context. I still remember the heated debate as if it happened yesterday because it put me on the path of self evaluation – within the boundaries of my interest, inclination, comfort and capabilities.

Most of the people are hesitant to play with derivatives as they are metaphoric to weapons of mass destruction. Theoretically, these are the instruments designed for the purpose of risk management and hedging but that’s not all they are anymore. They have grown to be an essential instrument in the hands of every portfolio manager.

Derivative is the area where application of mathematical formulae and statistical tools meet finance and technology.

High frequency trading, algorithmic models, volatility, latency of micro and nano seconds fascinate me to such an extent that I am eager to jump into this ocean of options.

The root cause analysis of the 2008 meltdown blames the sub prime mortgages and financial bundling of these derivative products which resulted in the demolition of Leyman Brothers and the high frequency trading which caused ‘Flash Crash’ in 2010 intrigue me to explore this world of endless fortune.