Unleashing the Power of Quantitative Research and Trading at DRW

We had the opportunity to sit down with Shreyas, a former intern turned full-time employee, to discuss his experiences during his internship and gain insights into the intriguing field of quantitative trading. From his initial attraction to DRW to his current role on the US Treasury Options desk, Shreyas shared his journey and the project that shaped his career.

Discovering DRW:

Shreyas first learned about DRW during a career fair on his campus. He then sought out more information from an upper classman that was working at DRW full-time as a QTA. Intrigued by the quantitative approach to finance, his passion for the markets, and his interest in economics, he was inspired to apply.

Project Focus - Investigating Treasury Options and Technical Indicators:

During his internship, Shreyas was assigned a project centered around analyzing the behavior of treasury futures and options near technical indicator levels. Technical indicators are tools used by traders worldwide to predict market trends. By analyzing financial time series charts, such as implied volatility or futures prices, traders can generate signals aiming to forecast direction and potential reversals. Shreyas focused on futures prices, exploring the multitude of indicators available and developed a quantitative approach to construct a back-testable strategy.

Setting Up for Success:

Shreyas attributes much of his success during the internship to the support he received from his project mentor and manager. His project mentor, a quant researcher and former QTA, provided invaluable guidance, assisted him in acquiring the necessary technology, provided access to relevant data, and helped him understand the technical aspects of his project. Shreyas' manager also played a pivotal role in developing his approach to problem-solving.

Proficiency in Pandas and Python Data Science Stack:

Shreyas emphasizes that one of the essential skills he was grateful to possess was a strong background in Pandas, NumPy, and the Python data science stack. Proficiency in these tools allowed him to effectively analyze the financial data, enabling him to derive meaningful insights for his project. He suggests that future interns aspiring to become QTAs should prioritize developing a solid foundation in these technologies.

Transitioning to a Full-Time Role:

Having impressed his managers during his internship, Shreyas joined DRW as a QTA on the U.S. Treasury Options desk. He seamlessly continued his project, leveraging the knowledge and experience gained as an intern. As a full-time QTA, he now focuses on signal research and implementation, building upon the foundation laid during his internship.

Shreyas' journey from intern to QTA at DRW provides a glimpse into the world of quantitative trading. Through his project, he gained valuable experience in combining market knowledge with a quantitative approach. His success underscores the importance of mentorship, a strong skill set, and a passion for continuous learning in the field of quantitative finance. With a bright future ahead, Shreyas continues to refine his skills, contribute to the U.S. Treasury Options desk, and navigate the exciting challenges that await him in the world of trading.