Financial Empowerment Day 

Once again this year, Blackstone LaunchPad and First Year Program hosted Financial Empowerment Day at BCC, in collaboration with industry partners like Charles Schwab, SIFMA Foundation, Chase Bank, Citizen Bank, Ponce Bank, and Popular Bank. The event, with the theme Unlocking Financial Freedom was aimed to equip students with valuable knowledge and resources to enhance their financial well-being.

Students participated in workshops and expert-led discussions on essential financial skills, from budgeting and credit management to investing and retirement planning.They also attended a resource fair on career opportunities with various financial institutions represented.The highlight of the day was a panel discussion on Navigating Uncertainty: Smart Investing in a Changing Economy.   

Additionally, students enjoyed food, raffles,  and our first SIFMA Foundation Stock Market Game Pitch Competition!  

Students Showcase Financial Insight in SIFMA Foundation’s Stock Market Game™
Over the course of eight weeks, BCC students dove into the world of finance through the SIFMA Foundation’s Stock Market Game™, gaining hands-on experience in trading, analysis, and strategic decision-making. During the final presentation event, students pitched their stock selections and shared key insights, demonstrating the ability to apply their learnings to real-world scenarios. 

The awards, generously donated by Citizens Bank, recognized the top three participants for their outstanding analyses and strategic thinking: 

• Rahman Nawaz (1st Place): Rahman captivated the audience with his analysis of McDonald’s, highlighting the company’s historical performance and market trends. 

• Daniel Albán (2nd Place): Daniel’s presentation on water and mining stocks showcased his analytical depth and newfound confidence to transition his skills to real-world investing. 

• Claridania Acosta (3rd Place): Caridania reflected on her personal investment journey, emphasizing how she honed her strategy using market tools and analysis techniques throughout the competition.