About Akuna:

Akuna Capital is an innovative trading firm with a strong focus on collaboration, cutting-edge technology, data driven solutions, and automation. We specialize in providing liquidity as an options market-maker – meaning we are committed to providing competitive quotes that we are willing to both buy and sell. To do this successfully, we design and implement our own low latency technologies, trading strategies and mathematical models. 

Our Founding Partners first conceptualized Akuna in their hometown of Sydney. They opened the firm’s first office in 2011 in the heart of the derivatives industry and the options capital of the world – Chicago. Today, Akuna is proud to operate from additional offices in Sydney, Shanghai and London.

What you’ll do as a Trading Sneak Peek Week Participant:

At Akuna Capital, we believe that innovation begins with inclusion – we are committed to providing opportunities and access to women and our industry’s other underrepresented groups. This August, we are excited to offer an engaging, week-long seminar showcasing derivatives trading in our Chicago headquarters. Through this program, we aim to bring together applicants who promote inclusion and diversity in the workforce, champion underrepresented talent, and are interested in receiving an inside “sneak peek” of life as a trader in the options market-making industry.

As a Trading Sneak Peek Week participant from August 18th – 22nd, you will be enrolled in a crash course on the exciting world of options. You’ll start the week collaborating with our dedicated trader trainers, as they teach you risk management, game theory, and optimal decision making. Outside the classroom, you’ll have the opportunity to apply your knowledge in real time. Does mastering the educational trading games and simulations used by our entry-level traders sound like fun? Would you like to shadow our trading desks to learn about Akuna’s unique approach to acting as a global liquidity provider/market maker? If your answer is yes, Sneak Peek Week is right for you! 

Additional program perks:

• AkunaU lectures from the firm’s leaders
• Roundtable networking sessions with women of Akuna
• Fun events dedicated to showcasing our firm and the beauty of summertime in Chicago
• Transportation and accommodation provided by Akuna
• Competitive stipend
• Consideration for future full-time employment

Qualities that make great candidates:

• Graduating between December 2025 – July 2026
• Pursuing a BS/MS/ PhD in engineering, economics, statistics, mathematics, computer science, actuarial science or a related/equivalent field
• Able to attend program in person at Akuna’s Chicago headquarters (August 18 – 22)
• Entrepreneurial self-starter ready to work in a fast paced, collaborative, team environment
• Strong math, numerical, and quantitative skills
• Demonstrable interest in trading and the financial markets 
• Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required on the first day of employment including F-1 students using OPT or STEM

In addition to technical skillsets, Akuna values the unique perspectives people can bring to the table to collaboratively solve complex problems and drive Akuna forward. We want all groups to feel empowered to apply, even if you don’t meet every qualification. We welcome your application and encourage you to take the first steps toward your future with us!

In accordance with Illinois Equal Pay Act, the total pay for this one-week program is $2,250. The total pay herein was determined in good faith by Akuna Capital LLC.