Optiver will be launching the Optiver &University of Amsterdam (UvA) Trading Academy, an exclusive program open to UvA students. Led by Optiver industry expert Robbert Pullen, the program introduces students to the foundations of financial markets and options theory, progressing to hands-on algorithm development and testing in Python. Participants will work on Optiver’s simulated exchange, Optibook, combining academic concepts with practical industry application.

You’ll walk away with:

• A deep understanding of financial markets, options theory and algorithmic trading – no financial background required!
• Direct experience on a simulated market exchange, offering a glimpse into what it’s like to work as a trader at a leading global market maker.
• The skill to design and optimise a Python trading algorithm based on real financial market data.

Course overview

• Market making theory: Foundations of market making, including options theory, evolving to practical data analysis and Python algorithm design.
• Hands-on practice: Build and optimise Python-based trading algorithms in Optibook, our real-time simulated exchange.
• Competitive challenges: The course concludes in a competitive event where you’ll deploy your Optibook algorithms against those of your peers. This event replicates the high stakes and rewards of real trading, giving you insights into the day-to-day life of a trader. An exciting prize awaits the winning team!
• A certificate from Optiver, awarded upon successfully finishing the Trading Academy and participating in the final algorithmic trading competition.

Eligibility criteria

• A registered student at UvA
• A strong aptitude in mathematics
• Basic coding proficiency – participants will use Python for this challenge
• No prior backgrounds in financial markets is required

Application procedure

1. Complete the online application form ( linked below).
2. You will hear back about your application decision by March 24

Key dates

• Course duration: April 2 – April 23
• Schedule:
  2 April 17:00 – 19:00
  9 April 17:00 – 19:00
  13 April 17:00 – 19:00
  20 April 17:00 – 19:00
  23 April 17:00 – 19:00

Application deadline: EoD Sunday 22March

Apply below for this incredible opportunity to enhance your knowledge and get practical skills in the world of algorithmic trading.