MY ONGOING SUCCESS INTO TRADING AND INVESTMENT BANKING

Written By Matthius Douglas

My name is Matthius Douglas, a 19 year old who has strong dreams and ambitions making loads of money from self emplyoment as well as help others financially.  By doing this I am a day trader, I trade forex, options, futures, and ETFs, but I would also like to become an investment banker.  I have my NFA Series 3 license working towards getting my Series 5 and 7 as well before turning 21 years old as well to have a net worth of a million dollars, which to some may seem unrealistic but to me I know it’s 100% achievable.  Success in trading and investment banking is not merely a consequence of intelligence or timing.  It is a combination of discipline, strategic thinking, continuous learning, and resilience.  In this paper, I will outline the foundations of my success thus far and how I plan to sustain and expand my accomplishments in trading and investment banking.  I will reflect on my motivations, key skills, strategic habits, and long-term vision for a thriving career in high finance.

My interest in investment banking and trading began with an insatiable curiosity about how capital flows drive global economies. As a student, I was drawn to the mechanics behind mergers, IPOs, and the stock market. This fascination turned into a disciplined study of financial markets, valuation techniques, and corporate finance. Passion drives my work ethic, and curiosity keeps me intellectually engaged—two attributes that will continue to support my long-term success.

Before stepping into the professional arena, I made a deliberate effort to master the foundational concepts in finance:

  • Financial accounting and statement analysis

  • Valuation models: DCF, Comps, Precedent Transactions

  • Economic indicators and market sentiment

  • Trading strategies: momentum, arbitrage, swing, and options These competencies were solidified through academic coursework, internships, and certifications, such as CFA Level I prep and Excel-based financial modeling workshops.

Trading demands a unique psychological and emotional discipline.  I built a personal trading journal, documented every trade, assessed mistakes, and revised my strategies.  My adherence to stop-loss rules and my resistance to impulsive decision-making have resulted in consistent, incremental growth of my portfolio.  My strategies are rooted in technical and fundamental analysis, but my real edge lies in emotional control.

Investment banking is as much about people as it is about numbers.  I proactively built a network through LinkedIn, alumni networks, and financial seminars.  These connections helped me land internships, gain insider insights, and remain updated on industry trends.  My ability to build and sustain professional relationships is a key asset that will serve me well throughout my career.

My success is also rooted in technical mastery:

  • Excel modeling for LBO, DCF, and merger models

  • PowerPoint for pitchbook creation

  • Bloomberg Terminal and Reuters for research

  • Python for data analysis and backtesting trading strategies Constantly evolving technical skills ensure I remain competitive in a fast-changing industry.

Work ethic: I consistently put in the hours to refine my skills.

  • Attention to detail: My work is thorough and accurate.

  • Emotional resilience: I thrive under pressure.

  • Curiosity: I seek to understand market psychology and client behavior.

  • Initiative: I don't wait for instructions—I anticipate needs.

Trading is not gambling.  My approach is backed by structured risk management, scenario analysis, and macroeconomic awareness.  I diversify across asset classes and utilize options for hedging.  My strategy evolves with market conditions, supported by a systematic review process that incorporates both quantitative data and qualitative insights.

Success in investment banking requires an understanding of broader market forces, from fiscal policy to geopolitical risk. I regularly analyze:

  • Interest rate trends

  • Earnings reports and corporate guidance

  • Regulatory changes

  • Market liquidity and volatility indicators This macro-awareness informs both my trades and client recommendations.

In the next 1–3 years, I aim to:

  • Join a top-tier investment bank

  • Pass CFA Level I and II

  • Lead a small deal team within my division

  • Achieve a 15%+ annual return in my personal trading portfolio These goals are realistic, measurable, and aligned with my long-term vision.

Over the next 10–15 years, I see myself:

  • Advancing to Managing Director (MD)

  • Building my own boutique advisory firm

  • Establishing a hedge fund or proprietary trading firm

  • Mentoring the next generation of finance professionals This vision is supported by my commitment to lifelong learning and adaptability.

Integrity is non-negotiable.  My success is grounded in ethical conduct, and I strive to build trust with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders.  I also aim to give back—through financial literacy initiatives, mentoring underprivileged students, and supporting entrepreneurship.

The finance industry evolves rapidly.  I read daily financial news, attend webinars, and regularly revisit key finance texts.  I treat each project and trade as a learning opportunity.  Success is not a finish line—it is a continuous climb.

My journey in trading and investment banking is built on a solid foundation of skills, discipline, and a passion for the craft.  I have already seen measurable success, and with continued dedication, adaptability, and ethical focus, I will not only thrive in this field but leave a lasting impact.  This paper is not just a statement of my accomplishments—it is a roadmap for my future in high finance.

Matthius Douglas