The National JA Stock Market Challenge is not simply a stock trading game for young people. Participating teams must successfully apply 21st century skills—such as critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and adaptability—throughout a fast-paced, real-time investment simulation. Participants are challenged to demonstrate financial literacy, strategic decision-making, and risk management as they react to breaking news, analyze market trends, and make rapid-fire trading decisions under pressure all while maximizing their portfolio value. The top 35 teams will compete as finalists at Future Bound.