Nomura, global markets (internship)

Question:

Do you agree with the theory that in a positive economic environment the Yen would be likely to appreciate against the dollar?

Answer:

I explained what the current situation between the two currencies was, explained the evolution of their relationship during the past two years, and touched slightly on what theory says could happen.

Question:

What is contango and backwardation?

Answer:

Contango is when future prices are higher than spot prices. Backwardation is when the spot price is higher than future prices. Then I explained why that could be the case.

Question:

Do you know what duration (in a bond) is?

Answer:

I don't know.

Question:

What do you know about Nomura?

Answer:

I highlighted their strengths, global momentum and strong presence in Asia

Question:

If you end up working long hours and your manager has no time for you as he thinks you are just a burden, how would you cope with this. Would you try to change the situation?

Answer:

I'd need to prove that I can add value to the bank and to my manager's work.

These questions were provided to us by a candidate claiming to have interviewed at the institution named above. We cannot guarantee that these were the actual questions asked.