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Trader Interview Questions

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Trader Interview Questions

In a trader interview, the interviewer likely wants to see that you are knowledgeable about financial markets and have strong opinions about them. Further, you can expect hypothetical questions that test your sales skills and showcase your personality. Speak persuasively and with conviction about the latest news in stocks.

Top Trader Interview Questions & How To Answer

Question 1

Question #1: Pitch me a stock that you would buy or sell now.

How to answer
How to answer: This is an opportunity to demonstrate your sales skills and tell a convincing story about a stock. Choose a company you know well, and be prepared for follow-up questions. Defend your case without wavering.
Question 2

Question #2: What is the riskiest decision you have ever made?

How to answer
How to answer: While trading is a role that requires risk taking, you can use this question to prove that you are thoughtful and well-researched when evaluating risk. Talk through your reasoning, why you determined this was an appropriate risk to take, and what the outcome was. The interviewer might also want to see you confidently stand by your decisions.
Question 3

Question #3. Tell me about something that happened recently in the financial markets and your opinion of it.

How to answer
How to answer: This question is twofold. A successful answer would first prove that you have a genuine interest in stocks and keep up to date with market news, which changes daily. Stay informed by reading reputable financial newspapers regularly. Second, this question allows you to share your unique point of view. Try to show the interviewer that you see value where others may not.

8,659 trader interview questions shared by candidates

Went through the first round numerical tests. The first round comprised of 3 separate numerical tests. The first round was the standard 80 mental arithmetic questions in 8 minutes. Around half the cohort got flushed there. 2nd round was numerical sequences, 26 in 30 minutes, final round was again mental arithmetic, 30 in 10 minutes, I think. First and third rounds were easy, but I found the second round to be difficult. Have an idea on how to solve numerical sequences before turning up.
avatar

Trader

Interviewed at Optiver

3.8★
Nov 8, 2015

Went through the first round numerical tests. The first round comprised of 3 separate numerical tests. The first round was the standard 80 mental arithmetic questions in 8 minutes. Around half the cohort got flushed there. 2nd round was numerical sequences, 26 in 30 minutes, final round was again mental arithmetic, 30 in 10 minutes, I think. First and third rounds were easy, but I found the second round to be difficult. Have an idea on how to solve numerical sequences before turning up.

During the technical interview When handed a marker pen, I asked whether there was something to write on. This was followed by a 5 second silence, after which the sole remark followed: "There is a white wall next to you, isn't there?"
avatar

Trader

Interviewed at Optiver

3.8★
May 8, 2018

During the technical interview When handed a marker pen, I asked whether there was something to write on. This was followed by a 5 second silence, after which the sole remark followed: "There is a white wall next to you, isn't there?"

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Glassdoor has 8,659 interview questions and reports from Trader interviews. Prepare for your interview. Get hired. Love your job.