20 Susquehanna International Group (SIG) Interview Questions and Answers

Susquehanna International Group, LLP is a private global quantitative trading firm located in Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania and Dublin, Ireland. SIG uses proprietary computer models to make decisions to buy or sell securities on more than 100 global exchanges.

If you’re interviewing for a job at SIG, you can expect to be asked questions about your experience, your knowledge of the financial markets, and your ability to think critically and solve problems. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of sample Susquehanna International Group interview questions and answers to help you prepare for your interview.

Susquehanna International Group (SIG) Interview Process

The interview process at SIG can vary depending on the position you are applying for. However, most positions will require an online assessment, followed by one or more interviews. The interviews can be either behavioral or technical in nature, and may be conducted over the phone or in person. For some positions, you may also be required to take a coding challenge. Overall, the interview process is relatively long and can be quite difficult, especially if you are not well prepared.

1. What are your thoughts on the current state of the financial industry?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the financial industry and how you can contribute to its growth. Your answer should include a brief overview of the current state of the financial industry, as well as what you think are some of the most important issues facing it today.

Example: “The financial industry has changed significantly over the past few years. With more people using online banking services than ever before, there’s been a decline in brick-and-mortar banks. However, I believe that this change is actually beneficial for consumers because it allows them to save money on fees. In my opinion, the biggest issue facing the financial industry right now is cybersecurity. Cybercriminals have become increasingly sophisticated, which means companies need to invest in new security measures.”

2. Tell me about a time where you had to work with a difficult team member and how you handled it.

This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle conflict and whether you have any strategies for overcoming challenges. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a specific situation where you were able to work with someone who was difficult or challenging and still managed to achieve your goals.

Example: “In my last role as an account manager, I had a team member who would often come in late and leave early. This made it hard for us to collaborate on projects because we weren’t always available at the same time. Instead of confronting them about their behavior, I decided to try being more flexible with my schedule so that we could meet up when they were available. After doing this for a few weeks, they started coming in earlier and staying later. They also began contributing more to our projects.”

3. Why do you want to work at SIG?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your interest in their company. They want to know what attracted you to SIG and why you would be a good fit for their organization. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention specific aspects of SIG that appeal to you. You can also include any research you have done on the company or its products.

Example: “I am very interested in working at SIG because I think your mission is really inspiring. Your goal of helping people all over the world is something I feel passionate about as well. I believe my skills and experience make me an excellent candidate for this position, and I hope I can help SIG continue to grow.”

4. How would you describe yourself in three words?

This question is a great way to learn more about the applicant’s personality and values. It also helps employers get an idea of how you would fit in with their team. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think about what words your friends or family members might use to describe you.

Example: “I would describe myself as driven, empathetic and creative. I am driven because I have always been motivated to achieve my goals. I am empathetic because I care deeply about other people and want to help them succeed. Finally, I am creative because I enjoy coming up with new ideas and solutions.”

5. What is your experience with quantitative analysis?

SIG is a financial services company that offers investment management, trading and research. The interviewer may ask this question to learn about your experience with analyzing data and interpreting information. Use examples from your past work experience to explain how you used quantitative analysis to interpret data and make decisions.

Example: “In my previous role as an analyst for the state government, I was responsible for monitoring the budget of several departments within the state. Each department had different needs, so I needed to use quantitative analysis to understand each department’s spending habits and determine where we could save money without affecting operations. This helped me develop strategies to reduce costs while still providing essential services.”

6. Explain what an option is to us.

This question is a basic one that you may be asked in any interview. It’s an easy way for the interviewer to see if you have a strong understanding of financial terms and concepts. In your answer, define what an option is and give an example of how it works.

Example: “An option is a contract between two parties where one party has the right but not the obligation to buy or sell something at a specific price on or before a certain date. For example, I once had a client who wanted to purchase stock from me. Instead of selling him the stock outright, I sold him the right to buy the stock at a later time at a higher price. This allowed my client to wait until he was ready to make his purchase.”

7. Do you have any trading experience?

SIG is a trading company, so it’s important that you have some experience in the field. If you do not have any experience, consider taking a course or reading up on how to trade online. You can also mention your interest in learning more about trading and ask for training opportunities at SIG.

Example: “I have no formal trading experience, but I am very interested in learning more about it. I would love to take a class or read up on the subject if there are any resources available here.”

8. Have you ever worked as a software developer before?

SIG is a software development company, so it’s important that you have experience in this field. If you don’t, consider getting some training or certifications to show the interviewer that you’re willing to learn and develop your skills.

Example: “I’ve worked as a software developer for five years now. I started out working with small businesses who needed help developing their websites. Now, I work at SIG where I’m part of a team that develops new products and services.”

9. Are you familiar with Python? If so, why do you think it’s a good language for data analytics?

Python is a popular programming language that’s often used in data analytics. Your answer should show the interviewer you have experience with Python and can explain why it’s beneficial for this type of work. If you don’t have any experience with Python, consider discussing another programming language you do know to demonstrate your knowledge of coding languages.

Example: “I’ve worked with Python before, and I think it’s an excellent language for data analytics because it allows me to write code more quickly than other languages. This means I can spend less time writing code and more time analyzing data. It also has many libraries that are useful for data analysis, such as NumPy, SciPy and Matplotlib.”

10. What are some ways that you keep up with the latest trends in technology?

SIG is a technology company, so it’s important that you’re up to date on the latest trends in the industry. Your answer should show the interviewer that you are passionate about technology and how it can be used to improve business processes.

Example: “I am constantly reading articles online about new technologies and software. I also subscribe to several newsletters from tech companies that offer tips and advice for using their products. I have taken several courses on Udemy where I learned more about specific programs like Microsoft Office 365 and Google Apps.”

11. Describe a situation when you were able to improve upon the design that was originally suggested.

This question is a great way to show your problem-solving skills and ability to think critically. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe the steps you took to improve upon the design and how that helped the company or organization achieve its goals.

Example: “When I was working for my previous employer, we were tasked with creating an ad campaign for a new product launch. The client wanted us to create a marketing plan that would increase sales by 20% within the first year of the product’s release. After reviewing the information provided by the client, I noticed that they had not included any social media marketing in their original proposal. I suggested including some basic social media advertising into our strategy, which would help reach more potential customers online. My suggestion was approved, and we implemented a social media marketing campaign as part of our overall strategy. As a result, we saw a 30% increase in sales during the first six months after the product’s release.”

12. Which programming languages are you most comfortable with?

This question is a great way to see if you have the necessary skills for the job. It also shows that you are aware of what programming languages SIG uses and how they can benefit from your knowledge.

Example: “I am most comfortable with Java, C++ and Python. I learned these languages in college, where I took several computer science courses. These were my favorite classes because I was able to apply what I learned to real-world situations.”

If you don’t know which languages SIG uses, it’s okay to ask them about it during the interview. This will show that you are interested in learning more about the company and its needs.

13. What are two things you can’t live without?

This question is a great way to learn more about the candidate’s personality and values. It also helps you determine if they are a good fit for SIG, as it allows you to see what types of things they value in their personal life. When answering this question, try to think of two things that are relevant to your role at SIG.

Example: “I can’t live without my family and friends. I am so grateful for them, especially when times get tough. They have always been there for me, and I know I can count on them no matter what. The other thing I can’t live without is music. Music has always been an important part of my life, and I find that it can help me feel better when I’m feeling down.”

14. What do you like least about working in teams?

This question can help interviewers understand your teamwork skills. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a specific situation where you had difficulty working with others and how you overcame the challenge.

Example: “I find that sometimes I have trouble communicating my ideas clearly when speaking in front of large groups. In one previous role, I was tasked with presenting our company’s quarterly financials to senior management. I practiced several times before the meeting but still felt nervous. My manager noticed this and offered to practice with me again. She helped me by asking questions about the information I presented so I could explain it more thoroughly.”

15. What do you consider to be your greatest weakness?

This question is a common one in interviews, and it’s likely that you’ll be asked about your weaknesses at some point. Employers ask this question to learn more about your self-awareness and honesty. When answering this question, try to choose a weakness that isn’t too important or relevant to the job.

Example: “I would say my greatest weakness is that I’m sometimes too honest. In the past, I’ve been fired from jobs for telling my managers when they were making mistakes. I know now that it’s best to keep these thoughts to myself, but I still find it difficult to bite my tongue.”

16. In regards to equity markets, which areas interest you the most?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the financial industry and how you can contribute to SIG. When answering this question, it’s important to be honest about what interests you most in regards to equity markets. You should also include a specific example that shows your interest in the topic.

Example: “I am very interested in learning more about emerging markets. I have always been fascinated by foreign cultures and languages, so I find it interesting to see how different countries are performing financially. In my last role as a portfolio manager for a small investment firm, I was able to create a diverse portfolio with exposure to emerging markets. This helped me achieve above-average returns on our investments.”

17. What kind of projects have you worked on before?

SIG is a large company that works on many different projects. The interviewer wants to know what kind of work you’ve done in the past and how it relates to their organization. Use your answer to highlight any experience you have with international business, financial services or technology.

Example: “In my last position as an accountant for a small construction firm, I worked on several projects at once. One project was creating a budget for a new office space while another was working on payroll for our employees. These two projects were very different but both required me to use my accounting skills to solve problems. This helped me learn more about the field of accounting.”

18. What skills do you bring to this position?

This question is an opportunity to highlight your relevant skills and experience. When answering this question, it can be helpful to refer to the job description or a list of requirements for the position. This will help you make sure that you are highlighting the skills that match what the employer is looking for in their ideal candidate.

Example: “I have five years of experience working as a financial analyst at my current company. In this role, I’ve developed strong analytical skills and learned how to use data to solve problems. I also have three years of experience using Microsoft Excel to analyze large sets of data. These skills would be beneficial if I were hired for this position.”

19. When did you first become interested in finance?

This question can help interviewers learn more about your background and how you got to where you are today. They may also want to know if you have any experience in the financial industry before applying for a job with SIG.

Example: “I’ve always been interested in finance, but I didn’t realize it was something I could do as a career until my senior year of high school when I took an economics class. The teacher talked about careers in finance and explained what they were like. After that class, I started researching different jobs in finance and realized that investment banking was right for me.”

20. Why do you think you’d be a good fit for this company?

This question is a great way for employers to learn more about your knowledge of their company and how you feel it would be beneficial to work there. When preparing for this question, make sure you research the SIG job listing thoroughly so that you can reference specific details in your answer.

Example: “I think I’d be a good fit for SIG because I have extensive experience working with international clients. In my last position as an account manager, I worked closely with several foreign companies, which helped me develop my communication skills and learn how to adapt to different cultures. This skill set makes me confident that I could succeed in this role.”