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Wunderkinds2016 Michael Buonassisi, 28
Portfolio Manager, Altium Wealth Management
Michael Buonassisi is proof that investing in young employees can yield high returns. He started at Purchase financial firm Altium Wealth Management five years ago as a summer intern. Today, he’s the firm’s top portfolio manager for total assets under management, as well as growth. He’s also the youngest employee in the company’s history to serve as vice-chair of the investment committee, which, he says, “is where the high-level portfolio decisions are made.” Since joining Altium, the company’s base portfolio has ballooned from $75 million to more than $450 million, and management says Buonassisi’s dedication has played a role in this rise. While robust mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills are essential to a career in portfolio management, colleagues say Buonassisi’s ability to respond quickly and build trusting relationships with clients is what helps him grow Altium’s footprint. According to Buonassisi, who manages a team of six, it’s all about passion: “You have to truly enjoy finance and [ensure] you are not entering the field solely for the paycheck. You have to be passionate about your work.” —TK
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