University of Birmingham Dubai Students Win Fifth Edition of ADNOC-Bloomberg Trading Challenge

Students from the University of Birmingham Dubai have emerged victorious in the fifth edition of the ADNOC-Bloomberg Trading Challenge, a competitive initiative aimed at equipping UAE students with practical skills in commodities trading and data analytics.

The winning team, ‘Fortune Traders’, comprised of Sittie Rania Guinomla and Malishka Kaur Bhasin, stood out for their disciplined “hold and watch” investment strategy. As a reward, the team is now eligible for training placements with ADNOC Global Trading, offering them valuable exposure to real-world energy markets.

This year’s challenge attracted more than 450 students from nine universities across the UAE. Five teams advanced to the final round, where they presented their trading strategies and data-driven insights to a panel of industry experts.

A Platform for Future Financial Leaders

Organized under the ADNOC-Bloomberg for Education Initiative, the challenge is a collaborative effort between ADNOC, Bloomberg, and the UAE Ministry of Education. Launched in 2019, the initiative aims to empower the next generation of UAE graduates by enhancing their financial literacy and analytical capabilities.

Over the years, the program has provided hands-on experience using Bloomberg Terminals, guided by expert Bloomberg analysts. Students simulate real-world analyst workflows, develop trading strategies, and compile detailed research reports for evaluation.

Endorsements from Leaders

Saif Al Falahi, ADNOC’s Director of Group Business Support & Special Tasks, praised the students' accomplishments, stating:

“We warmly congratulate the winners of this year’s ADNOC-Bloomberg Trading Challenge on their exceptional performance. This platform helps shape the future leaders of global energy trading and supports the UAE’s ongoing economic success.”

David Massias, Head of Market Specialists - Middle East & Africa at Bloomberg LP, also commended the participants:

“What stands out most to me is how collaborative and committed these students are. They come in eager to learn and leave with a deep understanding of working with data, thinking critically, and making informed decisions.”

Initiative Impact and Expansion

Since its inception, the ADNOC-Bloomberg for Education Initiative has impacted over 9,000 students and led to the installation of 100 Bloomberg Terminals across five major UAE universities, including:

• Khalifa University

• Abu Dhabi University

• UAE University

• New York University Abu Dhabi

• Higher Colleges of Technology

The growing scale of the initiative underscores the UAE’s commitment to developing a digitally skilled and financially literate workforce, aligned with the country’s broader innovation and education agendas.