The Student Managed Investment Fund Program (SMIF)

BAM | SMIF

Members of 2024 BAM team at competition

A Learn-By-Doing Approach to Managing Capital

4 Individual Components of the Program

Applied Capital Markets Forecasting (FRL 2990)

Applied Capital Markets Forecasting (FRL 2990) provides students with a foundation in economic forecasting, capital markets, and investment analysis. The course develops skills in interpreting macroeconomic trends, evaluating asset classes, and understanding market behavior to support informed financial decision-making.

These analytical skills are valuable for careers in investment management and long-term financial literacy. Successful completion of FRL 2990 also provides a competitive advantage when applying for the Student Managed Investment Fund (SMIF) program, including FRL 4990 and FRL 4611.

 

Three members of 2021 SMIC e-board in CBA courtyard

Bronco Investment Club (BIC)

The Bronco Investment Club (BIC) is focused on student education and awareness. It hosts industry professionals and provides workshops based on Fundamental security analysis and portfolio theory.

BIC's mission is to promote campus-wide financial literacy by providing the knowledge to understand the essentials of investing basics and personal finance. It also serves as potential recruiting ground for future students in the FRL 4990 course.

2018 team preparing in classroom

Applied Portfolio Management Course (FRL 4990)

Applied Portfolio Management Course (FRL 4990) is designed to give students the theoretical and practical foundation in investment management.

The course covers assessment of global economies, historical performance and interrelationships of major asset classes, developing capital market projections, portfolio optimization, strategic asset allocation, equity and fixed income strategy development, equity screening and valuation, and portfolio performance monitoring and reporting.

BAM logo

Bronco Asset Management (BAM)

Bronco Asset Management (BAM) consists of students who have successfully completed FRL 4990 and demonstrate a strong interest in investment management.

BAM operates the Cal Poly Pomona Student Managed Investment Fund (SMIF), where students develop portfolio strategies, analyze market conditions, and manage investments based on client objectives and current economic trends.

Portfolio Management Philosophy

Collage of 2023 team membersOur philosophy is centered on maximizing risk-adjusted returns while keeping client objectives and expectations at the core of every investment decision. Portfolio decisions are driven by fundamental research designed to build long-term wealth, supported by diverse perspectives and discussion-based collaboration throughout the portfolio construction and management process. Every investment undergoes a rigorous analytical review, while maintaining flexibility to adapt to changing market conditions. BAM/SMIF recognizes that markets are generally efficient over the long term, but seeks to capitalize on short-term inefficiencies through an active management approach. The program maintains a balanced, conservative perspective toward risk and reward, reflects Cal Poly Pomona’s “Learn by Doing” philosophy, and continues to evolve through the mentorship and guidance of SMIF alumni. Above all, BAM/SMIF operates with competence, diligence, and ethical responsibility by placing client interests first.

SMIF Faculty

Professor Tomkoria in front of CBA building

Mr. Pawan Tomkoria

Director

BAM's Faculty Advisor, Professor Pawan Tomkoria, has over 30 years of experience in the medical and electronics industries with positions in finance, executive management, and international business.

He joined CPP as an adjunct faculty professor and is currently an investment and management consultant.

Dr. Yu head shot

Dr. Wei Yu

FRL Chair & Program Sponsor

Dr. Wei Yu is the Chair and Professor of the Finance, Real Estate and Law department at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. She received her Ph.D. in Finance from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey. Her current teaching and research interests include finance and real estate big data analytics, mortgage lending, financial technology, and Finance and Supply Chain interface.