Economics 388, or ESAF, is an opportunity for students to invest and actively manage a sizable sub-portfolio of the college’s endowment that benefits student aid
The portfolio consists of 30-40 individual holdings averaging $10,000 – $15,000 each. Stocks, bonds, options, and options on futures are all qualified portfolio investments. Capital gains are reinvested, allowing it to grow over time.
Students research opportunities, write analyst reports, present their ideas, and make a group recommendation what to add to and subtract from the ESAF portfolio each semester.
Research is augmented by learning about macroeconomic factors impacting markets, using investment screening tools, and insights provided by investment industry professionals.
Results are shared by the class publishing an investment newsletter.
Students who wish to participate must first take Economics 337, Investments and Securities Markets. After this introductory finance course, you are eligible to enroll in up to four semesters in ESAF to gain in-depth experience.
The portfolio was initially financed by E. Kingman and Lola Eberhart in the early 1980’s. The Eberhart family and the Wilson Trust continue to enhance the fund’s principle.