A student at Anglia Ruskin University saw off competitors from higher education institutions across the world to win first prize for his analysis of the cost of living crisis.
Sebastian Tataru, a final-year Finance with Economics student at ARU, won the undergraduate category of the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment Educational Trust’s Global Awards.
Participants gave Powerpoint presentations on the topic: “What are the three most significant factors contributing to the cost-of-living crisis, how do they impact individuals, families, and societies, and what are your proposed solutions to address these challenges and alleviate the burden on affected populations?”
Sebastian’s presentation outlined how short-term Government policy could focus on supporting households worst affected by the cost-of-living crisis, and also develop buffer stocks of essential commodities, providing resilience to future price shocks in case of similar events in the future. His presentation also underlined the importance of reducing reliance on volatile gas and oil markets by investing in renewable energy.
Sebastian was nominated to take part in the competition by ARU finance lecturer Vijay Tohani while studying for his Capital Markets and Investment module.
He won £1,000 in cash for winning the UK national competition and £4,000 for triumphing in the global competition, which was open to CISI partner universities across the world including India, China, Africa and Europe.
Sebastian, who lives in Cambridge and is originally from Romania, said: “I was really excited to undertake my research on a relevant economic topic affecting societies everywhere and it was fascinating to analyse how global events have affected economies around the world.
“I had the unique opportunity to participate in an interview and discuss my career aspirations, as well as talk about current challenges in the financial sector.
“I am immensely thankful to CISI for giving me the opportunity to participate and for the amazing experience and support offered during the whole process. Never did I imagine that I would have win such a prestigious award, and I am hopeful that this will lay the foundations for great things to come."
Vijay Tohani, Senior Lecturer in Accounting and Finance at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), said: “I am delighted for Sebastian. It’s a clear demonstration that by encouraging a little self-confidence and combining this drive, determination and ambition you can be a global success story. Sebastian’s accomplishment should be an inspiration to others.”
