Trader Interview Questions

Trader Interview Questions

In a trader interview, the interviewer likely wants to see that you are knowledgeable about financial markets and have strong opinions about them. Further, you can expect hypothetical questions that test your sales skills and showcase your personality. Speak persuasively and with conviction about the latest news in stocks.

Top Trader Interview Questions & How To Answer

Question 1

Question #1: Pitch me a stock that you would buy or sell now.

How to answer
How to answer: This is an opportunity to demonstrate your sales skills and tell a convincing story about a stock. Choose a company you know well, and be prepared for follow-up questions. Defend your case without wavering.
Question 2

Question #2: What is the riskiest decision you have ever made?

How to answer
How to answer: While trading is a role that requires risk taking, you can use this question to prove that you are thoughtful and well-researched when evaluating risk. Talk through your reasoning, why you determined this was an appropriate risk to take, and what the outcome was. The interviewer might also want to see you confidently stand by your decisions.
Question 3

Question #3. Tell me about something that happened recently in the financial markets and your opinion of it.

How to answer
How to answer: This question is twofold. A successful answer would first prove that you have a genuine interest in stocks and keep up to date with market news, which changes daily. Stay informed by reading reputable financial newspapers regularly. Second, this question allows you to share your unique point of view. Try to show the interviewer that you see value where others may not.

8,661 trader interview questions shared by candidates

There are 100 wolves and 1 sheep on the grassland. Wolves can eat grass or sheep. Logically, wolves naturally prefer eating sheep. However, if a wolf eats a sheep, it transforms into a sheep and can then be chased and eaten by other wolves. These wolves vary in running speed but are all highly rational. Assume a sheep cannot be shared between two or more wolves. Question: Will the sheep be eaten by the wolves?

Quantitative Trader Intern

Interviewed at Pinestone Asset

3.5
Oct 14, 2025

There are 100 wolves and 1 sheep on the grassland. Wolves can eat grass or sheep. Logically, wolves naturally prefer eating sheep. However, if a wolf eats a sheep, it transforms into a sheep and can then be chased and eaten by other wolves. These wolves vary in running speed but are all highly rational. Assume a sheep cannot be shared between two or more wolves. Question: Will the sheep be eaten by the wolves?

Trading Activitiy: During the trading activity, you're required to know the basics of bid/ask and the relationship between spread and volume. The candidates were told to role play as a market maker and come out with a bid/ask price according to random numbers placed on a whiteboard.
avatar

Graduate Trainee Trader

Interviewed at Mako Trading Group

3.7
Jun 13, 2019

Trading Activitiy: During the trading activity, you're required to know the basics of bid/ask and the relationship between spread and volume. The candidates were told to role play as a market maker and come out with a bid/ask price according to random numbers placed on a whiteboard.

Viewing 2641 - 2650 interview questions

Glassdoor has 8,661 interview questions and reports from Trader interviews. Prepare for your interview. Get hired. Love your job.