Analyze real Australian companies. Apply valuation techniques. Present defensible investment recommendations.
The Caplet Challenge is an applied corporate finance competition where students analyze real Australian publicly-traded companies, apply valuation techniques, and present investment recommendations. This is not a stock-picking contest—participants are evaluated on reasoning quality, valuation logic, clarity of argument, and demonstrated judgment.
Inspired by Professor Aswath Damodaran's NYU Stern MBA corporate finance capstone project, the challenge is condensed and adapted for high school students in Years 9–12. No prior finance knowledge is required.
Teams act as the "Knox Student Investment Committee" with a hypothetical $10 million to invest in a company for 12–24 months. You'll select from eligible ASX-listed companies within the designated sector and produce a comprehensive investment thesis.
There are no "correct" answers. You are evaluated on the quality of your reasoning, not alignment with a predetermined outcome.
Correct application of valuation formulas, WACC calculations, and financial metrics
Quality of insights, comparative analysis, and sensitivity testing on key assumptions
Professional formatting, logical flow, and clear presentation of complex ideas
Realistic strategic implementation and defensible investment thesis
Innovative research approaches and advanced tool usage beyond basic requirements
Knox provides professional-grade, branded templates to ensure consistency and support rigorous analysis.
WACC Calculator with industry beta database, ROE/ROC Analyzer, Capital Structure Optimizer, Dividend Policy Template, and DCF Valuation Model
Curated data packages including 3 years of financials, stock history, and industry benchmarks
Week 1 workshops on Yahoo Finance, SEC EDGAR, and Damodaran Data navigation
Access to live stock data, financial statements, and valuation templates
AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT) are permitted but bounded. You may use them for:
However, AI is forbidden for fabricating data or replacing independent judgment. The analysis, valuation logic, and final recommendation must reflect your own thinking.
All AI use must be disclosed. Conclusions must be independently defensible when questioned. Random integrity checks and oral defense may be used to verify original reasoning.
Ready to compete? Join Capital Finance Club to participate in the next the Caplet Challenge. Apply for membership →