Zakarias Larsson
Zakarias Larsson: Worked in: Löparlarsson AB (co-owner), ING Hubs Poland, Bridgestone EMIA, Michael/Ström Dom Maklerski
Top skills: Financial Analysis • Equity Research • Financial Modeling • Equity Valuation
During Autumn 2021 and early Winter 2022, I led a team of four in the CFA Research Challenge, the most competitive and prestigious equity-research competition in finance. Our task was to perform a comprehensive equity analysis of a company listed on the Polish Stock Exchange: carry out due diligence, select an appropriate valuation method, perform comparable-company analysis, and assess risks in order to recommend a buy, hold, or sell rating.
We advanced to the regional finals and placed fifth among more than 50 participating universities across Poland and the Baltic states
During late Autumn 2023, I was presented with the opportunity to compete in the IMA Student Case Study Competition. As group leader, I assembled a team of highly motivated peers to tackle the challenge. Our task was to analyze a transaction for a fictional company, identify the appropriate accounting entry, and determine the classification under which it should be recognized.
We submitted an outstanding report and presentation that earned us a spot in the European and Central Asian finals in Amsterdam. There, we delivered an oral presentation in front of a panel of judges, explaining our reasoning and solution approach. In the end, we placed second among more than 500 participating universities and teams.
I passed the CFA Level I exam, solidifying my foundation in investment analysis and reinforcing my commitment to a career in asset management.
1. What was the most breakthrough moment in your career?
The most defining breakthrough in my career was landing my first role in a quantitative finance position after completing my master’s degree. It was a pivotal transition from academic theory to real-world application. Having studied quantitative finance rigorously, the opportunity to step into a role that involved model validation and risk analysis allowed me to truly apply and deepen my understanding of financial modeling, forecasting, and data-driven decision-making. This marked the beginning of a career path where my skills, interests, and long-term goals finally aligned.
2. What has been your biggest professional success?
My most significant professional success has been evolving into a portfolio management role while contributing meaningfully to a small Swedish startup. This experience allowed me to go beyond pure analytics and take ownership of investment decisions, strategy, and performance. It was an opportunity to wear multiple hats, make impactful decisions, and see firsthand how financial theories and models influence real portfolios. It also strengthened my entrepreneurial mindset and made me more resilient and versatile in navigating challenges in a dynamic environment.
3. If you could go back to the starting point of your career, but with all the knowledge and experience you’ve gained, what would you do differently?
Truthfully, during my studies, I left nothing on the table. I took my education seriously, leveraged every opportunity, and committed fully to both academics and practical experiences. That said, if I could go back with everything I know now, I would focus earlier on developing niche technical skills—like automation in portfolio management, advanced Python libraries for finance, or machine learning for investment analysis. I would also try to build a professional network sooner, understanding how essential connections are for career development in finance.
4. What’s your recipe for success? How to achieve it? What to focus on? What to avoid? What competencies gained from your studies at PUEB turned out to be the most important?
My recipe for success is grounded in a single principle: study what you truly love. If you’re genuinely interested in your field, no matter how hard it gets or how many setbacks you face, it will never feel like a burden. Passion creates persistence.