Futures First

Role: Trainee – Market Analyst

College: VIT

Interview Date: September 2024

Interview Type: On-Campus

Result: Selected (Inferred from detailed positive experience and tips)

Difficulty: Demanding but rewarding

Rounds: 4 rounds

Topics Asked: Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, Quick Math, Basic Arithmetic, Logical Puzzles, Financial Concepts, Trading, Decision-making, Stress Management, Behavioral questions, Personality, Soft skills, Handling stress and risks, Willingness to learn.

Experience:

Futures First visited VIT in September 2024 to recruit for the Trainee – Market Analyst role. The entire recruitment process took place in a single day and was described as intense, demanding, but rewarding. Key skills for success included quick thinking, confidence, and a good understanding of financial markets.

Round 1: Online Assessment
Over 4000 candidates appeared, with 57-60 shortlisted. This round focused on logical reasoning, quantitative aptitude, and quick math problems. The main challenge was the time constraint, requiring candidates to solve about 40 quick math questions in 10 minutes, ranging from basic arithmetic to logical puzzles. Tips included practicing mental math, focusing on speed and accuracy, and staying calm under pressure.

Round 2: Group Discussion
Around 57 candidates were shortlisted. Groups of 5-6 candidates participated in a unique format: a mix of logic-based math questions with a +1/-1 scoring system (increasing to +4/-4 for later sets). This round tested mathematical ability and decision-making under pressure.

Round 3: Technical and Behavioral Interview
This interview was a mix of technical and behavioral questions. The candidate prepared for finance-related topics and practiced quick math. Showing genuine interest in finance and trading was crucial. Questions covered topics like "Why do you want to join Futures First?" and "Considering the high attrition rate, what motivates you?". For candidates from non-finance backgrounds (like Computer Science), justifying the transition into finance was a common question.

Round 4: Final Interview (Behavioral/Stress)
This round was shorter but equally important, evaluating the candidate's ability to adapt to a high-stress trading environment. It focused on personality and soft skills, assessing how well the candidate could handle pressure. Tips included being honest, confident, and demonstrating a willingness to learn and grow.