‘There was a wonderful balance between academics and fun’

Meet Shantnu Bansal, an alumnus of Apeejay School, Saket, from the Class of 2017. From pursuing finance and building a career in Treasury Risk at American Express to advising angel investors and teaching financial subjects, his journey reflects curiosity, continuous learning and the courage to explore new paths. He continues to give back through education and mentorship.

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Could you briefly introduce yourself and tell us about your journey since graduating from Apeejay School, Saket?

I graduated from Apeejay School, Saket, in 2017 and went on to pursue my bachelor’s degree at Shaheed Bhagat Singh College, University of Delhi, followed by a master’s degree from IFHE University, Hyderabad. I then moved to Mumbai and began my professional journey with JP Morgan Chase in Valuations before moving to American Express, where I currently work in Treasury Risk. Alongside my professional role, I also work as a freelance advisor with angel investors, researching and valuing startups to help identify potential investment opportunities. I also teach financial subjects at universities and to underprivileged students as a recognised educator associated with BSE. For me, teaching is a way of giving back to the ecosystem that has helped shape me.

What are some of your fondest memories of your years at Apeejay School, Saket?

I think what I remember most is how even ordinary school days could become memorable. Annual Days, sports events, inter-house activities and school celebrations always gave us plenty to look forward to, but some of my fondest memories are simply of being with friends, preparing for events or finding ways to make an ordinary day a little more interesting.

What values or lessons from your school years continue to guide you in your personal and professional life?

One lesson that has stayed with me is that giving your best matters more than being able to control the outcome. School teaches you this quietly through exams, competitions and friendships. I have carried that perspective with me into my career. Setbacks can feel like failures when they happen, but many eventually turn out to be useful redirections. I try to see them as blessings in disguise, learn what they are meant to teach me and then move forward.

What inspired you to build a career in finance and risk management?

My interest began with the markets and a curiosity about why prices, businesses and economies behave the way they do. It was not something that developed overnight. Over time, I deliberately moved myself into this space by studying finance, understanding complex financial products and exploring different roles within the industry.  

What does a typical day look like in your current role?

A typical day involves keeping track of emerging risks in the banking industry while understanding how global developments could affect financial institutions and markets. I closely follow interest rates, credit markets, geopolitical developments and events such as wars that can influence the financial ecosystem. I also keep up with evolving banking regulations and frameworks, such as Basel, and work with different teams on risk assessments, regulatory requirements, governance and reporting. 

Which skills have been most important in your career?

For me, it has been a combination of skills rather than one particular strength. Clarity of thought is especially important because financial problems can become complicated very quickly. You need to understand complex products, identify what truly matters, analyse the numbers and then communicate your conclusions clearly.

What advice would you give to current Apeejay students?

I would tell them not to worry about having everything figured out too early. I switched streams from Science to Commerce midway through the school year, and I do not regret that decision.

Being confused is not a weakness, and there is no pressure to get every decision right the first time. Sometimes, you need to try something before you know whether it is right for you. Explore different possibilities, take reasonable and calculated risks, and accept that you may fail along the way.

How can young students make the most of opportunities beyond academics?

Try things that are unfamiliar, even when they do not immediately seem interesting. It is easy to stay within the subjects, activities and circles of people you already enjoy, but growth often happens when you step outside your comfort zone. Participate in competitions, take up responsibilities, meet people from different backgrounds and explore areas that may seem boring today. You do not have to become good at everything. Sometimes, simply trying something new can reveal an interest or passion you never knew you had.