Matilda Davison, associate investment manager, Kingswood Group
What is your prediction for the match?
This is England’s toughest test yet but in order to win, they will have to improve their passing as there have been too many errors in previous matches, I predict Ireland to win by 30-15.
How do you think England will fare throughout this tournament?
England should beat France but not by a great margin. I expect England will finish as the runner-up in the tournament.
What skill is required in both rugby and portfolio management?
Adaptability – Rugby is a dynamic sport where conditions change rapidly. This requires players to change their approach to gain a competitive advantage. This is mirrored with portfolio managers who also require flexibility to adapt to gain an advantage of the ever-changing world of financial markets.
Which rugby player would make a good fund manager, and why?
George Furbank, as he is always committed and reads the game well. As the newly appointed Captain of Northampton Saints, this shows trust and respect along with strong leadership. These are key attributes you find in a good fund manager.
Kate Howells, Wealth Planner, BRI Wealth Management
What is your prediction for the match?
I predict an Irish victory, as they are currently at the top of the Six Nations table having won all three of their fixtures so far. Ireland looks very impressive, so I feel they will be too strong for England, although naturally, I hope I am wrong!
How do you think England will fare throughout this tournament?
I think England have fared okay so far throughout the tournament and it was unfortunate to lose to Scotland in our last game. It would be great for England to follow up on their successful World Cup with a strong Six Nations, albeit I don’t think we will be the victors this year.
What skill is required in both rugby and portfolio management?
There are a few skills which overlap, namely, the ability to make quick decisions and react accordingly to the conditions we are faced with. Markets constantly throw out new challenges and opportunities and it is essential for portfolio managers to make quick but well thought out decisions. Another skill is teamwork, as it would be exceptionally difficult to manage a portfolio alone with only one mind and pair of hands. Sharing the workload and having different strengths and specialisms is essential in the same way you wouldn’t want a rugby team full of just forwards or backs.
Which rugby player would make a good fund manager, and why?
Tough question, I will have to defer to my own rhyming slang on this and opt for George Ford. On the basis he is our ‘penalty kicker’ I hope this will translate to him being a good ‘stock picker’.