"There is no other possible mindset in this actual world than one that is constantly evolving and learning.” - Eriz Zárate
We’ve had the pleasure of knowing many EPATians who have 
managed to get out there in this amazing domain of algorithmic trading and quantitative trading and established themselves. One such is of that of someone with a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy who became a Quant and has established his very own company.
We take you through the aspiring journey of Eriz Zárate, EPAT alumni, recipient of the Best Performing Alumni Award, and the Founder of Zárate-Mateo Algorithmic Systems.
Here’s Our Conversation With Eriz!
Hi Eriz! Tell us about yourself!
Hello! I’m Eriz Zárate. I’m the Founder of Zárate-Mateo Algorithmic Systems, specialists in the development of quantitative trading strategies with AI techniques and market microstructure concepts. I’ve always had a keen interest in learning about the markets, entrepreneurship, and AI. I’m a resident of Spain and I enjoy the cinema, I love travelling and I like getting to know other cultures.
It is very unusual for someone from a pharmacy background to become a Quant. What led to the sudden twist in your story?
I’m sure you are referring to the fact that I have a background in Pharmacy and here I am today, a Quant specialized in AI. Yes, I have a bachelor’s in Pharmacy and I wasn’t experienced in either the technical or the financial aspect of trading. All I had was the interest in the markets from the point of view of market microstructure, order flow, and much more. I always wanted to learn about the development and implementation of quantitative investment systems.
From then to becoming a Quant, QuantInsti’s EPAT® programme played a vital role, acting as a catalyst.
What was your Quant journey like?
Pursuing my interest, I explored the internet jungle to find that one programme that would cater to my every need. drove me to the Executive Programme in Algorithmic Trading (EPAT). I admire the detailed coverage of important concepts like probability theories, quantitative strategies, derivatives, Python and R coding, business environment and automation. What appealed to me was the fact that it covers a wide variety of concepts in different fields and is widely known in the industry.
What differentiated it from other online courses was the sheer presence of industry practitioners, experts, and leaders in algo trading and quantitative finance who were on the Faculty panel.
What are some of your most profound experiences of your days with EPAT?
Well, there are many, but I really cherish the Best Performing Alumni Award by EPAT that was presented to me based on my merit. The most unforgettable would be the 360-degree support and constant guidance from the mentors towards achieving my goals is what helped me the most. It ensured that I never got stuck, continued learning and I guess that has propelled my learning. It is worth mentioning that I was excited to gain access to placements and offers from across the world.
What was your motivation in achieving this success today?
I believe there is no other possible mindset in this actual world than one that is constantly evolving and learning. Today I might be looked at a strong practitioner of abstraction/ perspective/ dimensionality ideas. But that wasn’t always the case. From there onwards, I have worked even harder to gain deeper knowledge from different programmes. I’m glad to have achieved expertise in integrating cloud computing and AI technologies (such as reinforcement learning and deep reinforcement learning).
All this experience has amalgamated to lead me here.
How different would you say are the then pharmacy graduate Eriz and today’s CEO Eriz?
EPAT equipped me with the skills to establish myself as a Quant. Today, I’m better prepared to face different difficulties that might emerge in the domain. And I can proudly say that I have a wide knowledge of important concepts through statistics and strategies.
The key aspects of developing good teams and high-level conclusions are being a promoter and leader of collective intelligence which I have slowly evolved into, taking in from various courses, various experts and people that I interacted with during my tenure at EPAT.
How do you perceive your vision of the future?
I have never stopped myself from going into another entity for the purpose of learning. I look towards growing more, learning much more and venturing farther ahead.
Thanks, Eriz!
We’re glad that you could share your story with us. You’re an inspiration to all the Algo Trading aspirants out there. We wish you the best!
You can learn various aspects of Algorithmic trading with the Executive Programme in Algorithmic Trading (EPAT) that equips you with the required skill sets to be a successful trader. It covers training modules like Statistics & Econometrics, Financial Computing & Technology, and Algorithmic & Quantitative Trading. Enroll now!
Disclaimer: In order to assist individuals who are considering pursuing a career in algorithmic and quantitative trading, this case study has been collated based on the personal experiences of a student or alumni from QuantInsti’s EPAT® programme. Case studies are for illustrative purposes only and are not meant to be used for investment purposes. The results achieved post completion of the EPAT® programme may not be uniform for all individuals.
