BUYSIDE: Invesment strategies aligned with the United National Sustainability Developmental Goal

San Diego, California

The University of San Diego’s Student International Business Council recently hosted an engaging forum featuring SIBC student teams from USD, Notre Dame, and Benedictine College, all centered around investment strategies aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They brought together alumni, donors, and industry professionals to serve as judges, evaluating each team's approach to values-based investing.

Each college offered a distinct perspective on how to integrate sustainability into financial decision-making. USD’s team, led by junior Emma Alvarez, focused their presentation on the importance of setting clear, actionable targets when aligning investments with the SDGs. They introduced their chosen industry, explained the rationale behind selecting it, and provided insights into its projected growth. Their analysis concluded with thoughtful stock suggestions that reflected both market potential and SDG alignment.

It went great and I really enjoyed getting to meet everyone older than me on this project. I also learned a lot about using Bloomberg for fundamental stock analysis from my finance partner on this project. Presenting was super fun and I got to see how other schools functioned and worked through this project. Although schools like Notre Dame had so much information, USD had the presentation skills and strong delivery.

-Luke Magturo

As an international business major, I think SIBC is one of the most beneficial opportunity at the university. It provides students with real-word experience and practical, applicable knowledge unlike any other organization. The ability to collaborate with peers is an essential skill, and SIBC fosters an environment that allows that to flourish. 

Even though our Buyside team faced a quick turn around, we came together seamlessly, whether that was finishing tasks outside of meetings or gathering at night to do run throughs of our presentation. The collaborative spirit made it all with while. It was uplifting to be surrounded by such driven and supportive individuals. 

In the end, my experience with Buyside taught me more than market trends and sustainable medical device alternatives but it showed that our dedication was making the world a better place.

-Cael Burnett

Being a part of Buyside was such an incredible opportunity for growth, learning, and connecting. Getting to work closely alongside SIBC students from USD, and then connecting with SIBC students from Notre Dame and Benedictine, was such a great experience. I would do it over again in a heart beat!

-Emma Alvarez

I had a lot of fun working on this project and learned many cool things that I would have never thought to research if not for Buyside. Not only did I learn a lot, but I also got to know my teammates better, which was super fun. Overall I had a truly amazing experience and am so grateful to SIBC for this opportunity.

-Emily Aiona