In search of a new equilibrium: The Master in Corporate Finance kicks off its 25th Edition

The opening week of the 25^th edition of the Master in Corporate Finance welcomed its new cohort, challenging students to navigate the complex global financial landscape in search of a new equilibrium.

The 25^th edition of the Master in Corporate Finance (MCF) officially started on October 2, 2024, with SDA Bocconi proudly welcoming the largest cohort in the program’s history: 57 candidates from 29 different countries, ready to embark on one of the most exciting adventures of their professional lives.

The Opening Ceremony marked the beginning of an intensive and enriching week, where students were introduced to their new home, the high-tech and sustainable SDA Bocconi campus. They also met the professors and mentors who will guide them throughout their MCF journey.

The Ceremony started with an institutional address from the Dean, Professor Stefano Caselli, who welcomed the new cohort and highlighted the evolving paradigm in financial markets. Caselli explained how investors, once focused primarily on short-term returns for pensions, insurance, and welfare, are now adopting a long-term perspective. “Investments today,” he noted, “are not only expected to yield financial returns but also contribute to sustainable and resilient economic growth”. He drew parallels with higher education, which embodies long-term commitment and fosters sustainability and ethical values. Choosing higher education is inherently forward-thinking, representing a dedication to both personal and societal growth.

Professor Enzo Baglieri, Associate Dean of the Master Division, emphasized the transformational journey the students are about to undertake: “You will find yourself changed as a person because you are sharing this experience with your classmates, building a strong network. Part of this network is SDA Bocconi. Here, we are building a powerful alliance together.”

Professor Federico Pippo, MCF Director, underscored the importance of critical thinking, reflection and connecting ideas. He encouraged students to be curious, to embrace uncertainty, and to challenge the unknown. “Curiosity,” he stated, “is one of the most powerful tools of the human mind and is essential for understanding the present and confronting the future.”

During the Ceremony, Francesco Saita, Full Professor of Finance at Bocconi University, highlighted three key points:

1. Finance is one of the most fascinating and competitive fields. A life-changing program like MCF equips students with the essential tools to thrive: competencies, soft skills, networking opportunities, and the ability to interpret market trends.
2. Success in Finance requires a range of intertwined abilities: from valuation skills to networking and understanding market dynamics. That’s why all the courses at MCF are equally relevant.
3. The financial system is not set in stone. It’s influenced by interest rates, regulations and other key factors. It’s a living entity, and understanding its dynamics is crucial for seizing future career opportunities.

Finally, Maurizio Dallocchio, Full Professor of Finance and Founder of the MCF Program, inspired students with his thoughts on the search for a new equilibrium in an unpredictable world. “In a time when the concept of 'equilibrium' is rapidly fading, finance remains a solid foundation to rely on. It offers the knowledge needed to combat unpredictability (which is replacing volatility) and to steer economic institutions toward profitability and sustainability. Welcome to MCF, your path to growth and achieving value in equilibrium."

Students also had the opportunity to hear from MCF alumni Lorenzo Longo and Giovanna Malponte, both members of the MCF Advisory Board, along with Andrea Benocci, SDA Bocconi’s LinkedIn and MCF Communities Manager. Professor Massimo Della Ragione also introduced them to Bocconi 4 Innovation, an initiative that selects and supports innovative business ideas and startups through acceleration programs.

The selection process for the 26^th Edition begins on October 2^nd.

SDA Bocconi School of Management

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