USU PUBLIC RELATIONS – Another outstanding achievement has been recorded by a Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) student on the national stage. Steven Ernesto Sebastian Sihombing, a student of the Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB USU), won three titles in national-level stock trading competitions held from July to October 2026.

Steven’s impressive achievement came after he successfully passed a series of rigorous selection stages and capital market trading simulations organized by three leading higher education institutions in Indonesia.

Three Podium Finishes at the National Level

Steven’s string of achievements began at the UBB National Trading Competition 6.0, organized by the Capital Market Study Group (KSPM) of Universitas Bangka Belitung from July 27 to August 7, 2026. Under the theme “Daily Prophet’s Market Storm: Navigasi Strategis di Tengah Gejolak Pasar,” Steven secured Third Place nationally through his reliable execution of trades amid market dynamics.

Steven continued his consistent performance at the Virtual Trading Competition Jaya Investment Week 2026, initiated by the Jaya Stock Club of Universitas Pembangunan Jaya. In the competition, themed “From Learning to Investing: Building Financial Independence Through the Capital Market,” Steven once again secured Third Place.

The series of achievements reached its peak at the Veteran Trading Competition, organized by the Student Investment Study Group (KSMI) of UPN “Veteran” Yogyakarta, culminating in September–October 2026. Under the theme “The Next Growth Horizon: Capturing Strategic Growth in an Evolving Market Landscape,” Steven won Second Place nationally after completing stages involving investment analysis, trading simulations, and a presentation before the judging panel.

In-Depth Analysis and Market Sensitivity

Steven’s success in securing three awards did not come overnight. His interest in the capital market began with a desire to deepen his practical knowledge of investment. According to him, trading is not merely about conducting transactions, but also requires a thorough understanding of macroeconomic indicators at both the local and global levels.

For each competition, Steven developed measured trading strategies and investment research analyses beginning one week before the competition. He carefully mapped market sentiment, global geopolitical issues, and macroeconomic indicators that could potentially influence stock index movements.

This series of victories was also the result of a long process. Before reaching the winner’s podium, Steven had participated in numerous similar competitions, including sharpening his analytical skills through equity research competitions.

Community Synergy and Educational Message

Steven’s achievements were also supported by a conducive campus environment. During his preparation, he received guidance and exchanged experiences with alumni and members of the USU Capital Market Study Group (KSPM). Moral support and interactive discussions with fellow KSPM USU members were among the key factors that strengthened his trading mindset.

From all the competitions he participated in, Steven gained valuable lessons about the importance of continuously updating his knowledge of the latest developments and information.

“The lesson is that we really need to stay informed and keep up to date with global and local news because they have a significant impact on the volatility of stock price movements,” said Steven.

Concluding his remarks, Steven encouraged fellow students not to hesitate to explore the world of investment from an early stage. He emphasized that financial literacy can be developed gradually through various educational resources and virtual trading simulations before entering the real market. He hopes that this achievement will inspire more young people to actively contribute to improving financial literacy in Indonesia.