Experiential learning programs

The combination of volatility in capital markets and an uncertain and challenging job market for new graduates mean that talented students are often left with virtual portfolios and stock games as their only options to learn vital skills in financial analysis and asset management.

In 2011, Simon Fraser University took an unprecedented step towards offering a solution to this situation with the establishment of Beedie Endowment Asset Management (BEAM) – a $5 million endowment fund, made possible through the generous support of the Beedie family, to be managed entirely by undergraduate students.

Building on Simon Fraser University’s previous success with the Student Investment Advisory Service (SIAS), a fund managed entirely by graduate finance students for over ten years, BEAM provides approximately 10 students each year the opportunity to manage one of the largest undergraduate student-run funds in Canada.

BEAM is not an investing simulation or game – the current cohort of students (following in the footsteps of the alumni now placed in roles in Vancouver, Toronto and New York) has been managing the fund since June 2013, after completing an intensive four month course on security analysis and fixed income fundamentals and an additional session on investment management, under the guidelines of an Investment Policy Statement. Since then, they have created over 50 equity/ fixed income research pitches, formulated research reports and developed multiple comprehensive research books. In addition, the team regularly presents its results to an advisory panel of Vancouver’s Top Industry Professionals.

BEAM is not just a student-run endowment fund – it is the future of undergraduate finance education: an extremely demanding, hands-on experience that will equip students with the abilities necessary to enter and excel in capital markets.

We invite you to learn more about BEAM from this site and welcome any questions you may have about the fund, its operation, or its members. Finally, we extend a special welcome to current SFU students considering applying to BEAM – it has been an unforgettable experience for the current cohort and we look forward to successful future generations of BEAM members strengthening this venture’s role as one of Canada’s largest and most innovative undergraduate-run investment fund.