NEASQC webinar: Quantum Finance

The NEASQC project is organising a series of webinars that are not a simple overview of the NISQ Quantum Computing use cases investigated by our project, but a platform to learn from and exchange with the best experts in the fields covered by NEASQC. Our Work Package 5 prepared a programme of four weekly webinars between 5 and 24 November, dedicated to Machine learning and optimization methods. Each week, a distinguished guest speaker will share their insights on the day’s topic, and NEASQC experts will then explain how NEASQC is addressing the issue through a specific use case. 

On 19 November 2021 from 17:30 to 19:00 CET, we will address Quantum finance

Agenda

• 17:30-18:10 Guest speaker: Dr Stefan Woerner, IBM Quantum Applications Research & Software Lead at IBM Research – Zurich
  Towards Quantum Advantage in the Financial Service Sector
• 18:10-18:15  Technical questions
• 18:15 – 18:35 Quantum in Finance: Defining the Bottlenecks and Opportunities (by Steve Suarez, HSBC)
• 18:35 – 19:00 Open discussion and expert Q&A session  

Moderator

Dr Vedran Dunjko, Leader of the Work Package 5 (Machine Learning & Optimisation) in the NEASQC project, Assistant Professor at Leiden University

Speakers

Dr Stefan Woerner, IBM Quantum Applications Research & Software Lead at IBM Research – Zurich

Dr. Stefan Woerner is the IBM Quantum Applications Research & Software Lead and a Principal Research Staff Member in the Quantum Technologies group of the Science & Technology department at IBM Research – Zurich. The focus of his research is the development and analysis of quantum algorithms for optimization, simulation, and machine learning as well as their practical applications, particularly in finance.

Towards Quantum Advantage in the Financial Service Sector

Abstract: Quantum computing promises speed-ups for several applications relevant in the financial service sector.
In this talk, we will discuss some quantum algorithms to speed up Monte Carlo simulation as well as quantum heuristics for combinatorial optimization and machine learning.
Further, applications such as option pricing, credit risk analysis, and portfolio management will be analyzed with respect to their potential quantum advantage and requirements to achieve it.

Steve Suarez, MBA, Global Head of Innovation, Global Functions at HSBC, London

Steve is the Global Head of Innovation, Global Functions at HSBC, leading an innovation ecosystem to shape structure and deliver better ways of serving our customers through innovative solutions.  Steve is an accomplished transformation expert with 28 years of experience in consulting, telecommunications and financial services, guiding geographically diverse teams and driving large scale complex strategic initiatives across multiple organisations.  Steve establishes strong connections with executive stakeholders and corporate partners alike sharing his expertise through multiple channels including non- executive board participation and keynote engagements. His passion for innovation and the growth mind-set drives his continuous learning, the most recent of which is the Innovation and Leadership program at MIT where he has become an MIT Sloan Alumnus.

Quantum in Finance: Defining the Bottlenecks and Opportunities

Abstract: The promise of Quantum holds significant opportunities for the Financial Services Industry. The challenge however, is defining which applications of quantum to focus on and making sure our systems and underlying technology is fit for purpose. In this talk, we will outline some of the current bottlenecks of applying quantum in finance and where the greatest opportunity lies.