Baruch’s Stock Market Challenge Gives High School Students a Taste of Wall Street

August 17, 2026

Baruch College’s fourth annual High School Stock Market Challenge attracted a record 33 rising seniors from 17 New York City high schools this summer, immersing students in the world of investing while building their financial literacy and analytical skills.

From June 29 to July 24, students managed virtual portfolios worth $500,000 building diversified investments that included at least five companies.

They analyzed market trends, evaluated investment opportunities, and adjusted their strategies as market conditions changed.

Hosted by Baruch’s Subotnick Financial Services Center, the program combined weekly financial education classes with practical experience on the Bert W. and Sandra Wasserman Trading Floor, where students gained exposure to the market news and analysis tools used by active investors and traders in the stock market.

“This year’s turnout demonstrates the increasing demand for experiential learning opportunities that make finance accessible and engaging for young people,” said Gideon Pell, a lecturer at Baruch’s Zicklin School of Business and director of the Subotnick Center. “The Stock Market Challenge gives students the chance to apply analytical thinking, collaborate with peers, and build confidence in skills that will benefit them regardless of the careers they ultimately pursue.”

Inside the Trading Challenge

The students faced a challenging market environment during the competition, Pell added. Over a four-week period, the Standard & Poor’s 500 index—a key benchmark for investors—had day to day fluctuations but ended largely unchanged. Despite those conditions, the top performers generated returns that met or exceeded the benchmark.

Following the end of the competition, participants prepared PowerPoint presentations outlining their investment strategies, portfolio outcomes, and lessons learned. Pell awarded prizes to the three highest-performing investors, recognized two students for the best presentations, and presented certificates of completion to all students.

Expanding Access to Financial Education

Since its launch in 2023, Baruch’s High School Stock Market Challenge, which is free to students and schools, has attracted participants from a growing number of New York City high schools increasing from six in its first year to 10 schools last summer.

“The challenge gives students a front-row seat to understanding how financial markets work,” Pell said. “They also get to experience a college environment and are encouraged to add this program to their future college application.”