I get to the office around 6:30 am and comb through the events of the last 24 hours to pick out which items will most impact today's market. I compile a morning update of our proprietary thoughts on important news and stocks that we have been actively trading and distribute this update internally and to clients. Before the market opens at 9:30 am, our team (desk strategists, salespeople and traders) meets to discuss any relevant transactions or issues so that we are all on the same page and can work together throughout the day while managing our risk exposure. I call clients to personally apprise them of information or thoughts that I think they might find relevant.
The early market is active with most of the orders placed—yelling out orders rapid-fire, and executing orders at the best possible price for multiple clients at a time with the phones ringing off the hook. Throughout the day things become calmer, and we have more time to thoroughly discuss ideas and build out our financial models. We have strategic meetings with management to discuss thoughts on specific companies or trade opportunities. As the day winds down before the market closes at 4 pm, activity picks up as last-minute orders begin to come in.
After the final bell, our team reviews what went well, what did not and how we think the next day will unfold. I work on any loose ends or projects that I was not able to get to that day and head out of the office—although sometimes evenings can become later nights if a large transaction or relevant announcement is made, and we will want to frontload as much work as possible before the next morning.
I have had the great experience of being exposed to Jefferies' dynamic platform—by being afforded the unique opportunity and perspective to work in both banking and equities. After spending several rewarding years working in banking in our restructuring group advising distressed companies. A different challenge opened up as our growing global equities platform expanded its Event Driven and Special Situations desk. The cross-platform support that Jefferies provided to my career has been exceptional, and the ability to expand your knowledge base by learning different products, working in different cities or working with colleagues from different backgrounds provides an unparalleled experience. Today, with financial markets and the investing landscape continually evolving, Jefferies is on a full sprint forward—at a time when other firms are still regrouping and figuring out where they stand.