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Introduction

  • Dave Kazowski is the Director of the CFA Institute Research Challenge.

  • A record interest is noted, with new teams participating, including University of the Pacific.

  • This year's subject company is Dolby Labs.

  • Dolby is known primarily for its sound systems in theaters but has a larger and more complex business model.

Competition Overview

Collaboration

  • The competition is a collaboration between the CFA Society of San Francisco and the CFA Society of Sacramento.

  • Competition territory: San Luis Obispo to the Oregon border.

Subject Company

  • Dolby Labs will be the focal analysis for the upcoming competition, highlighting its unique business challenges.

Event Details

Venue

  • The host venue is Cal State East Bay, specifically in the library of the core building.

  • Acknowledgment to Professors Fung and Jan for securing the space.

Resources and Links

  • Important links will be shared for resources.

  • The CFA Institute website contains vital information and official rules for the competition.

  • Ensure to download the official rules document and consult the guidelines for both the report and presentation.

  • Previous winners' videos can be found on the CFA website.

Important Resources

Data Analysis Platforms

  • Previous partnerships have included Refinitiv and London Stock Exchange Group; this year, FactSet will provide free access to participants.

  • FactSet access is valued at $10,000 to $12,000.

  • A webinar will be available for learning how to use FactSet.

Timeline of Events

  • November 7: Kickoff meeting.

  • November 22: Deadline to register as competitors. Only substitutes can register after this date.

  • January: Call with investor relations at Dolby to discuss queries prepared by participants.

  • February 1: Reports due by 3 PM (soft deadline).

  • February 15: Live event where presentations will be made.

Registration Guidelines

Competitor Registration

  • Register using an edu email address, even if asked for a .com email.

  • Each university team needs a unique team name (e.g., CSU East Bay Avengers).

Important Notes

  • FactSet requires an edu email address for subscription access.

  • Advisors and mentors must register as volunteers.

Mentoring and Coaching

  • Teams without a CFA mentor can request one from Kazowski.

  • Communicate with advisors about any questions or needs regarding mentors.

Presentation Guidelines

Presentation Schedule

  • February 15 event will take place in professional attire (suits and ties).

  • Teams present their recommendations in front of a panel of judges, with a 10-minute presentation followed by 10 minutes for questions.

Scoring and Evaluation

  • The final score combines presentation and report evaluations equally.

  • Points awarded based on team member participation during presentations.

Preparation Tips

  1. Utilize Coaches: Teams are assigned professional coaches for guidance.

  2. Distinction in Skills: Understand that report writing and presenting require different skill sets.

  3. Start Early: It’s crucial to begin work as soon as possible to avoid last-minute pressures. This ensures detailed work and avoids losing points.

Q&A Section

  • Queries regarding time limits, team registration, and submission guidelines were addressed during the session.

  • Clarifications on report length and appendix guidelines were also confirmed (maximum of 10 pages each).