Introduction to the Stock Market Game

Overview of the Competition

BETHLEHEM, N.Y. (NEWS10) — At a time when most adults are feeling apprehensive about their investment portfolios, two Bethlehem High School seniors defied the odds and managed to make money off of their investments.

They were named New York State’s top finishers in the Spring 2025 Stock Market Game organized by SIFMA. The game started in January and took place over the course of three months, simulating a real exchange day.

Understanding the Game Mechanics

The game provided a unique opportunity for students to learn about the stock market and its intricacies. Mahmud Zamamiri, who placed second in the statewide competition, explained, "Part of the money that was made was due to volatility in the market." Although the money may have been imaginary, their knowledge of the market and how people would react to current events were very real.

Student Performance

Zamamiri and his classmate Veer Williams, who placed first, both started off with $100,000 fake cash and beat out 4,500 competitors at other high schools across the state as they made big gains on their investments. Williams explained, "I found a lot of the stuff about decision making to be interesting and how a lot of economics is related to psychology and how the behaviors of people is directly related to how to economy functions."

Teacher’s Guidance

Their economic teacher, Jason Majewski, has helped them understand the drivers behind supply and demand throughout their high school years. "Ultimately, what we experienced over the last month with tariffs, we knew something was going to happen," he said.

Competition Results

Williams won the competition ending up with $138,000 from his investments by the end of the game. Zamamiri secured the number two spot with $128,000. As for the current economic climate, they had this advice to share. "I think people are sometimes too hasty in their decision making. You have to work on what’s there and not what might happen," Williams shared. "Especially right now, people are panicking for sure."

Advice for Investors

Zamamiri added, "Don’t focus so much on your portfolio in the short term. You make your investments and stick with them. Ride the wave up."

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Conclusion

The success of Bethlehem High School seniors in the statewide stock market game is a testament to their hard work and dedication to understanding the intricacies of the stock market. Their advice for investors is invaluable, and their achievements serve as an inspiration to others.

FAQs

Q: What was the name of the competition won by the Bethlehem High School seniors?
A: The Spring 2025 Stock Market Game organized by SIFMA.
Q: How many competitors did the winners beat out?
A: 4,500 competitors at other high schools across the state.
Q: What was the initial amount of fake cash given to each participant?
A: $100,000.
Q: Who were the top two finishers in the competition?
A: Veer Williams (first place) and Mahmud Zamamiri (second place).
Q: What was the final amount of money won by the first-place winner?
A: $138,000.