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The Rise of the ‘Quant Plus’: Finance Firms Now Prioritize Soft Skills and Adaptability
Meta Description: A new risk.net survey reveals a dramatic shift in the skills finance firms seek in quantitative analysts,with “soft skills” now rivaling technical expertise.
The days of the purely mathematically gifted “quant” dominating the financial landscape are waning. While a strong foundation in mathematics remains crucial, a recent survey indicates that firms are increasingly seeking well-rounded candidates who possess strong coding abilities, communication skills, and a suite of interpersonal traits previously less valued in front-office roles. This evolving demand signals a fundamental shift in how the financial industry approaches quantitative analysis.
The findings, stemming from a comprehensive study by Risk.net, surveyed 39 employers – including 19 leading banks (10 of which are globally systemically crucial), 14 asset managers, hedge funds, and market-makers, and six prominent data and financial software vendors. The survey highlights a growing emphasis on practical skills and adaptability, moving beyond the conventional focus on theoretical prowess.
coding Skills Take Center Stage
Perhaps the most significant shift revealed by the survey is the heightened importance of coding skills.Python has emerged as the dominant language, with 92% of firms citing it as essential. C++ remains relevant,especially for high-frequency trading,but its prevalence is declining. Interestingly, while mathematical ability remains a baseline expectation, it is no longer the primary differentiator.
The Unexpected Decline of charisma
Contrary too popular belief, charisma was universally ranked as the least critically important attribute. This suggests a preference for competence and clarity over superficial charm.
AI’s Growing,But Not Dominant,Role
The survey also shed light on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the future of quantitative finance. While AI is undoubtedly gaining traction, its prevalence is not as widespread as some might expect.Only three respondents – representing firms where AI is central to their operations – anticipate that graduates will spend more than 50% of their time on AI-related projects. For the vast majority of othre financial institutions,the average allocation to AI-related work is closer to 20%. This suggests that,while critically important,AI is currently supplementing,rather than replacing,traditional quantitative methods.
Red Flags and Essential Skills
Employers also identified key traits to avoid in potential hires. Overconfidence, arrogance, and an inability to admit mistakes were consistently cited as major red flags, alongside intellectual and learning gaps. The ability to clearly articulate research findings, both in written and oral presentations, emerged as a critical skill, deemed “very important” by 74% of responding institutions. Effective communication with senior management,collaboration across teams,and the ability to transfer knowledge to colleagues are also highly valued.
The Evolving Educational Landscape
The survey also examined the educational pathways best suited for aspiring quants. Many firms are forging partnerships with universities, ranging from preferential recruitment agreements to the establishment of joint research labs, providing students with valuable industry experience.These collaborations are mutually beneficial, offering students a blend of academic rigor and practical submission.
The distinctions between financial engineering, quantitative finance, and business school programs were also explored. According to the survey,business schools tend to focus on model implementation,while master’s programs in quantitative finance emphasize a strong theoretical foundation. Financial engineering courses aim to strike a balance between the two.
Master’s Program Trends and Global Mobility
The “quantcast Master’s Series,” a component of the “Tomorrow’s Quants” project, features podcasts with directors of master’s programs in quantitative finance from Australia, Switzerland, the UK, and the US. These conversations reveal a shift in applicant behavior, with fewer candidates from India and China targeting US programs and more focusing on opportunities in Europe and Australia.
Global mobility is a significant factor, with 60% of respondents reporting that at least half of their graduate intake or junior quants require visa sponsorship, and 12% requiring visas for all junior hires.
The 2026 edition of the Quant Finance Master’s Guide and Ranking will provide a comprehensive overview of master’s programs globally, with Baruch College of the City University of New York having led the rankings for the past two editions, based on criteria such as placement rates, average graduate salaries, program selectivity, and lecturer qualifications.
Ultimately, the “Tomorrow’s Quants” project serves
