Author

Clement D.

Navigating Finance Trends: AI, Chips, and Quantum Breakthroughs

by Clement D. September 25, 2025

The Great Depression of the 1930s taught us that economic crises can reverberate for decades, shaping the path of nations and markets. Today, as the world grapples with the aftermath of the AI-driven rally, we find ourselves at a crossroads reminiscent of those tumultuous times.

In this article, we’ll explore the key market events unfolding, from Witkoff’s predictions of a Gaza breakthrough to Intel’s pursuit of an Apple investment, as captured in the videos “Witkoff Predicts Gaza Breakthrough; Intel Seeks Apple | Horizons Middle East & Africa 9/25/2025” and “Intel Seeks Apple Investment & HSBC Quantum Breakthrough | Daybreak Europe 9/25/2025.”

Additionally, we’ll delve into the profound impact of AI and drone technology on modern warfare, as showcased in the video “How AI, drones in Ukraine have changed warfare #tech #politics.” Finally, we’ll examine the potential ripple effects of Trump’s visa chaos on global investments, as discussed in the interview “Trump’s Visa Chaos Risks Billions in Investments | Bloomberg: Insight with Haslinda Amin, 9/25/25.”

By connecting these timely events to broader economic and historical themes, we aim to provide our readers with a comprehensive understanding of the forces shaping the financial landscape.

🎥 Witkoff Predicts Gaza Breakthrough; Intel Seeks Apple | Horizons Middle East & Africa 9/25/2025 (Bloomberg)

In an ever-evolving global market landscape, the latest episode of Horizons Middle East & Africa offers valuable insights for investors. The report highlights several key developments that could impact the region’s financial landscape. Notably, US equity-index futures have inched higher in Asian trading, signaling a potential rebound after a brief pause in the AI-driven rally. This suggests cautious optimism among market participants, though the underlying risks and volatility in the sector remain a concern. Additionally, the segment explores Taiwan’s decision to step back from chip export curbs on South Africa, a move that could have significant implications for the semiconductor industry and global supply chains. Equally intriguing is the prediction by US envoy Steve Witkoff of a potential breakthrough in the Israel-Hamas Gaza war, which could have far-reaching geopolitical and economic consequences. With expert commentary from industry leaders, such as Ray Sharma-Ong and Frances Ames, this episode of Horizons Middle East & Africa provides a comprehensive analysis of the region’s financial landscape, enabling investors to navigate the opportunities and risks with greater clarity.

🎥 Intel Seeks Apple Investment & HSBC Quantum Breakthrough | Daybreak Europe 9/25/2025 (Bloomberg)

In this strategic memo, we summarize the key highlights from the Bloomberg Daybreak Europe program, which covers the latest developments in global finance and economics.

The report begins with a recap of US futures edging higher after Wall Street’s recent AI-driven rally. The Federal Reserve’s Mary Daly suggests more rate cuts are coming, but cautions the central bank should move cautiously. Notably, Bloomberg has learned that Intel has approached Apple about a potential investment, as part of Intel’s efforts to stage a comeback after the US government took a stake in the struggling chipmaker.

On the trade front, the US has formally cut tariffs on EU cars to 15%, with the lower rate backdated to August 1st. However, the US is also setting the stage for levies on robotics. Separately, HSBC has achieved a breakthrough in deploying quantum computing for financial markets, using IBM’s quantum processor to attain a 34% improvement in predicting bond trade prices.

Overall, this program provides valuable insights on key developments impacting the global financial landscape.

🎥 How AI, drones in Ukraine have changed warfare #tech #politics (Bloomberg)

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has served as a pivotal moment in the evolution of modern warfare, catalyzing a profound shift in the strategic and economic dynamics that underpin global military operations. The emergence of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence and drone systems, has fundamentally altered the landscape of combat, introducing new capabilities and challenges that redefine the very nature of military engagement. This transformation, as articulated by industry experts like Alex Ferrara of Bessemer Venture Partners, underscores the remarkable adaptability of warfare in the face of technological disruption, a phenomenon that will undoubtedly continue to shape the trajectory of geopolitical power dynamics in the years to come. As the world grapples with the implications of these emerging technologies, the lessons learned from the Ukrainian theater will undoubtedly serve as a crucial reference point for military strategists and policymakers alike, as they navigate the complex and ever-evolving landscape of modern warfare.

🎥 Trump’s Visa Chaos Risks Billions in Investments | Bloomberg: Insight with Haslinda Amin, 9/25/25 (Bloomberg)

The video “Trump’s Visa Chaos Risks Billions in Investments” by Bloomberg Insight with Haslinda Amin examines the significant financial implications of the Trump administration’s policies on immigration and visa regulations. The program delves into the concerns raised by South Korean companies facing uncertainty over their U.S. investment projects due to visa issues, as well as the views of immigration lawyer Charles Kuck, who argues that the administration’s contradictory agendas on immigration and investments are jeopardizing billions of dollars in potential investments. The video also features insights from industry leaders, including the CEO of Macquarie Group and the Head of Investment Services at BNP Paribas Wealth Management, Asia, who discuss the broader impact of these policies on technology-driven infrastructure investments and the AI industry.

♟️ Interested in More?

Read the latest financial news: c++ for quants news.

September 25, 2025 0 comments

Best Time Series Database: An Overview of KDB+

by Clement D. September 24, 2025

In modern quantitative finance, data is everything. Trading desks and research teams rely on vast streams of tick data, quotes, and market events, all arriving in microseconds. What is the best time series database? Managing, storing, and querying this firehose efficiently requires more than a generic database: it demands a system built specifically for time series.

Enter kdb+, a high-performance columnar database created by KX. Known for its lightning-fast queries and ability to handle terabytes of historical data alongside real-time feeds, kdb+ has become the industry standard in financial institutions worldwide. From high-frequency trading to risk management, it powers critical systems where speed and precision cannot be compromised.

What sets kdb+ apart is its unique combination of a time-series optimized architecture with the expressive q language for querying. It seamlessly unifies intraday streaming data with historical archives, giving quants the ability to backtest, analyze, and act without switching systems.

1.What is KDB+?

KDB+ is a high-performance time-series database created by Kx Systems and built in C++. It was designed to handle massive volumes of structured data at extreme speed, making it ideal for environments where both real-time and historical analysis are critical. Unlike traditional row-based databases, KDB+ stores data in a columnar format, which makes scanning, aggregating, and analyzing large datasets much faster and more memory-efficient. At its core, it is not only a database but also a complete programming environment, paired with a powerful vector-based query language called q. q combines elements of SQL with array programming, allowing concise expressions tailored for time-series queries such as joins on timestamps, rolling windows, or as-of joins on top of a tabular data structure.

This combination enables KDB+ to ingest streaming data while simultaneously providing access to years of history within the same system. The result is a platform capable of processing billions of rows in milliseconds, which is why it has become the gold standard in finance for trading, risk, and PnL systems. Hedge funds, investment banks, and exchanges rely on KDB+ to analyze tick data, price instruments, monitor risk, and support algorithmic trading strategies. Although it has found applications beyond finance, such as in telecoms and IoT, its deepest adoption remains on trading floors where latency and accuracy are paramount.

Example in q (KDB+ query language):

trade:([] time:09:30 09:31 09:32;
          sym:`AAPL`AAPL`MSFT;
          price:150.2 150.5 280.1;
          size:200 150 100)

This defines a table trade with 3 columns (time, sym, price, size) and 3 rows.

You can then run a query like:

select avg price by sym from trade

Result:

sym	avg price
AAPL	150.35
MSFT	280.1

The main trade-off is cost: licenses are expensive, but in industries where milliseconds translate to millions, its efficiency and reliability make KDB+ irreplaceable.

2. Why is KDB+ so efficient for quantitative finance?

KDB+ is exceptionally efficient in quantitative finance because it was designed from the ground up to deal with the challenges of financial time-series data. At its core, it uses a columnar storage model, which means that data for each column is stored contiguously in memory. This structure drastically speeds up operations like scanning, aggregating, and filtering on a single field. For example, computing average prices or bid-ask spreads across billions of ticks. The system also runs entirely in memory by default, avoiding the I/O bottlenecks of disk-based databases, while still allowing persistence for longer-term storage. On top of this, the q language gives quants and developers a concise, vectorized way to query and transform data. Instead of writing long SQL or Python loops, q lets you express complex analytics in just a few lines, which not only improves productivity but also reduces latency.

KDB+ further integrates real-time and historical data seamlessly, so the same query engine can process both a live market feed and decades of stored data. This is invaluable for trading desks that need to backtest strategies, monitor risk, and react instantly to new market conditions. Its efficiency also comes from its extremely lightweight runtime, capable of handling billions of rows in milliseconds without the overhead of more general-purpose systems like Spark or relational databases.

kdb Insight SDK is a unified platform for building real-time analytics applications at scale. Instead of stitching together a patchwork of tools like Kafka, Spark, and Redis, it provides everything you need—streaming, storage, and query—in a single technology stack.

The platform is designed to handle billions of events per day while keeping both real-time and historical data accessible through the same interface. At the core is the Data Access Process (DAP), which exposes data from memory, intraday, and historical stores through one API. Whether you prefer q, SQL, or Python (via PyKX), the query experience is consistent and efficient.

A lightweight service layer coordinates execution: the Service Gateway routes requests, the Resource Coordinator identifies the best processes to handle them, and the Aggregator combines results into a unified response.

With kdb Insight SDK, you can ingest, transform, and analyze streaming data without the complexity of multi-tool pipelines. The result is a simpler, faster way to power mission-critical, real-time analytics.

3. Some Examples

You want to get 5-minute realized volatility per symbol?
Here’s a clean q snippet you can drop in:

/ assume 1-second bars for brevity; w=00:05
w:00:05;
bars:select time,sym,px:price by sym from trades;
bars:update ret:log px%prev px by sym from bars;
select rv:sqrt 252*sum ret*ret % (count ret) by sym from bars where time within (last time

You want the last quote for AAPL at or before a specific timestamp T?
Use an as-of join like this:

/ Pick the timestamp of interest
T:.z.P + 0D00:00:03;

/ Return the last quote at/before T for AAPL
aj[`sym`time; ([] sym:`AAPL; time:T); quotes]

You want 1-minute OHLCV per symbol?
Here’s a tidy q snippet:

/ Assume `trades` has: time, sym, price, size

/ 1) Bucket timestamps to 1-minute bins
tr: update mtime:1 xbar time from trades;

/ 2) Compute OHLCV per (sym, minute)
select
  open:first price,
  high:max price,
  low:min price,
  close:last price,
  vol:sum size
by sym, mtime
from tr

4. Conclusion

KDB+ remains the gold standard for time-series analytics when latency and scale matter. With kdb Insight SDK, you get streaming, storage, and query in one coherent stack: no glue code. Real-time and historical data live behind a single API (q/SQL/Python), simplifying everything. The columnar, in-memory design delivers millisecond analytics on billions of events. Our snippets showed the essentials: VWAP, as-of joins, OHLCV bars, and realized volatility. Interoperability is straightforward: PyKX for Python, C API/C++ for tight integration. Operationally, Insight’s gateway, coordinator, and aggregator remove orchestration pain. This translates to faster iteration cycles and fewer production surprises. Trade-offs exist (licensing, expert skills), but ROI is clear for mission-critical systems. If you’re in quant finance or any latency-sensitive domain, KDB+ is hard to beat. Your next step: spin up a local process, load dummy trades, and run the queries.
Then wire a small Python or C++ client and time your end-to-end path. When ready, try Insight SDK to scale from laptop to cluster without re-architecture. Measure p95/p99 latencies and storage footprints to validate the fit for your workload.
If the numbers hold, you’ve found your real-time analytics platform.

September 24, 2025 0 comments

News

Disruption in Fertility Tech: Insights for Finance Professionals

by Clement D. September 23, 2025

Institutional Investors: Navigating the Evolving Fertility Landscape, AI Disruption, and the Fed’s Monetary Policy

As institutional investors, it is crucial to stay informed on the latest developments shaping the finance and technology sectors. In this strategic memo, we will explore a range of insights, from the disruption in the fertility industry to the implications of the Nvidia-OpenAI deal and the Federal Reserve’s rate-cutting cycle.

First, we delve into the rise of Kindbody, a fertility chain that has experienced rapid growth, as highlighted in the Bloomberg report “IVF Disrupted: Investigating the quick rise of fertility chain Kindbody.” This investigation provides valuable insights into the broader challenges and opportunities within the largely unregulated fertility industry.

Next, we turn our attention to the Nvidia-OpenAI deal, where Nvidia will invest up to $100 billion to support new data centers and AI infrastructure, as covered in the “Nvidia-OpenAI Deal; France Recognizes Palestine | Horizons Middle East & Africa 9/23/2025” video. This strategic partnership holds significant implications for the future of artificial intelligence and its impact on various industries.

Finally, we examine the Federal Reserve’s rate-cutting cycle, with insights from Marathon Asset Management CEO, co-founder, and chairman Bruce Richards, as featured in the “Fed Cuts Only at Halfway Mark, Marathon’s Richards Says” video. Richards’ perspective on the Fed’s remaining 125 basis-points of cuts sheds light on the central bank’s monetary policy and its potential effects on the broader economy.

Additionally, we briefly touch on the US judge’s decision to allow the construction of Orsted’s wind farm off the coast of Rhode Island, as reported in the “Orsted’s Rhode Island Wind Farm Given Go-Ahead by Judge” video, highlighting the ongoing developments in the renewable energy sector.

As institutional investors, it is crucial to stay informed on these strategic topics to make well-informed decisions and navigate the evolving landscape of finance and technology.

🎥 IVF Disrupted: Investigating the quick rise of fertility chain Kindbody #tech (Bloomberg)

The Bloomberg reporter’s investigation into Kindbody, a rapidly growing fertility chain in the U.S., highlights broader issues within the largely unregulated fertility industry. The report provides a deep dive into the company’s rise, illustrating the complex challenges and regulatory gaps faced by patients navigating this sensitive and often costly healthcare service. The podcast episode, “IVF Disrupted: The Kindbody Story,” available on various platforms, offers decision-makers a concise and informative overview of the industry’s dynamics and the implications for consumers seeking fertility treatments.

🎥 Nvidia-OpenAI Deal; France Recognizes Palestine | Horizons Middle East & Africa 9/23/2025 (Bloomberg)

Nvidia’s ambitious $100 billion investment in OpenAI aims to bolster the companies’ AI infrastructure and capabilities, underscoring the financial significance of this strategic partnership. Additionally, France’s formal recognition of Palestine as an independent state and Congo’s decision to lift its cobalt export ban highlight the evolving geopolitical and economic dynamics in the Middle East and Africa. Prominent industry experts, including Ayesha Tariq, Yezid Sayigh, and Thomas Pramotedham, provide insightful analysis on these developments and their implications for the region’s financial landscape.

🎥 Fed Cuts Only at Halfway Mark, Marathon’s Richards Says (Bloomberg)

According to Marathon Asset Management CEO and co-founder Bruce Richards, the Federal Reserve’s rate-cutting cycle is “only at the halfway mark,” indicating that it has 125 basis-points left to cut before reaching a neutral rate of 3%. Richards highlights the risks associated with weakening jobs data, despite higher inflation, which has prompted the Fed to embark on an easing cycle that is expected to last for some time. Regarding the opportunity, Richards anticipates that a “dove” will take over as the next Fed chair in eight months, who will likely bring rates down to the neutral rate of 3% almost immediately. However, investors should be mindful of the potential market sentiment shift as the Fed navigates this challenging economic environment.

🎥 Orsted’s Rhode Island Wind Farm Given Go-Ahead by Judge (Bloomberg)

In the annals of the renewable energy revolution, the recent ruling by a US judge permitting the continuation of Orsted’s wind farm project off the coast of Rhode Island stands as a pivotal moment. This decision, which quashed the efforts of the previous administration to halt the nearly-completed development, underscores the relentless march of clean energy technologies, even in the face of political headwinds. The Revolution Wind project, now poised to resume construction, represents a significant stride towards a more sustainable energy future, one that has been steadily gaining momentum over the past decades. As the global community grapples with the pressing challenges of climate change, this judicial victory for Orsted serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of the renewable energy sector, as it continues to reshape the economic and environmental landscape for generations to come.

♟️ Interested in More?

Read the latest financial news: c++ for quants news.

September 23, 2025 0 comments

Libraries Performance

C++26: The Next Big Step for High-Performance Finance

by Clement D. September 22, 2025

C++ is still the backbone of quantitative finance, powering pricing, risk, and trading systems where performance matters most. The upcoming C++26 standard is set to introduce features that go beyond incremental improvements.
Key additions like contracts, pattern matching, executors, and reflection will directly impact how quants build robust, high-performance applications. For finance, that means cleaner code, stronger validation, and better concurrency control without sacrificing speed. This article highlights what’s coming in C++26 and why it matters for high-performance finance.

1. Contracts

Contracts in C++26 bring native support for specifying preconditions and postconditions directly in the code. For quantitative finance, this means you can enforce invariants in critical libraries — for example, checking that discount factors are positive, or that volatility inputs are within expected ranges. Instead of relying on ad-hoc assert statements or custom validation layers, contracts give a standard, compiler-supported mechanism to make assumptions explicit. This improves reliability, reduces debugging time, and makes financial codebases more transparent to both developers and reviewers.

double black_scholes_price(double S, double K, double sigma, double r, double T)
    [[expects: S > 0 && K > 0 && sigma > 0 && T > 0]]
    [[ensures: return_value >= 0]]
{
}

Preconditions ([[expects: ...]]) ensure inputs like spot price S, strike K, and volatility sigma are valid.
Postcondition ([[ensures: ...]]) guarantees the returned option price is non-negative.

2. Pattern Matching

Pattern Matching is one of the most anticipated features in C++26. It provides a concise way to handle structured branching, similar to match in Rust or switch in functional languages. For quants, this reduces boilerplate in pricing logic, payoff evaluation, and instrument classification. Currently, handling multiple instrument types often requires long chains of if-else statements. Alternatively, developers rely on the visitor pattern, which adds indirection and complexity. Pattern matching simplifies this into a single, readable construct.

auto payoff = match(option) {
    Case(Call{.strike = k, .spot = s}) => std::max(s - k, 0.0),
    Case(Put{.strike = k, .spot = s})  => std::max(k - s, 0.0),
    Case(_)                            => 0.0  // fallback
};

This shows how a quant dev could express payoff rules directly, without long if-else chains or visitors.

3. Executors

Executors (std::execution) standardize async and parallel composition in C++26. They’re based on the Senders/Receivers model (P2300) that reached the C++26 working draft/feature freeze. Goal: make scheduling, chaining, and coordinating work composable and predictable. For quants, this means clearer pipelines for pricing, risk, and market-data jobs. You compose tasks with algorithms like then, when_all, let_value, transfer. Executors decouple what you do from where/how it runs (CPU threads, pools, IO).

// Price two legs in parallel, then aggregate — composable with std::execution
#include <execution>      // or <stdexec/execution.hpp> in PoC libs
using namespace std::execution;

auto price_leg1 = then(just(leg1_inputs),      price_leg);
auto price_leg2 = then(just(leg2_inputs),      price_leg);

// Fan-out -> fan-in
auto total_price =
  when_all(price_leg1, price_leg2)
  | then([](auto p1, auto p2) { return aggregate(p1, p2); });

// Run on a specific scheduler (e.g., thread pool) and wait for result
auto sched = /* obtain scheduler from your thread pool */;
auto result = sync_wait( transfer(total_price, sched) ).value();

4. Reflection

Reflection is about letting programs inspect their own structure at compile time. In C++26, the committee is moving toward standardized reflection facilities. The goal is to replace brittle macros and template tricks with a clean interface.
For quants, this means easier handling of large, schema-heavy systems. Think of trade objects with dozens of fields that must be serialized, logged, or validated. Currently, you often duplicate field definitions across code, serializers, and database layers.

struct Trade {
    int id;
    double notional;
    std::string counterparty;
};

// Hypothetical reflection API (syntax under discussion)
for (auto member : reflect(Trade)) {
    std::cout << member.name() << " = " 
              << member.get(trade_instance) << "\n";
}

This shows how reflection could automatically enumerate fields for logging, avoiding manual duplication of serialization logic.

September 22, 2025 0 comments

IDE

Best C++ IDE for Quant Devs: An Overview of CLion

by Clement D. September 22, 2025

Choosing the right development environment can make or break productivity in quantitative finance. With complex codebases, performance-critical models, and constant debugging, quants need more than just a basic text editor. In this article, we’ll look at why CLion stands out as the Best C++ IDE for Quant Devs, and how it can streamline everything from building numerical libraries to managing large-scale projects in finance.

1.History of CLion

CLion is a cross-platform IDE for C and C++ developed by JetBrains, the company best known for IntelliJ IDEA and PyCharm. It was first announced in 2014 with the ambition of offering a modern, professional-grade environment tailored to the needs of C++ developers.

Built on the IntelliJ Platform, CLion immediately stood out by adopting CMake as its primary build system, which differentiated it from many other IDEs at the time. The first stable release arrived in 2015, and developers quickly appreciated its intelligent code completion, powerful refactoring tools, and support for contemporary C++ standards such as C++11 and C++14. Over the years, JetBrains integrated advanced debugging capabilities through GDB and LLDB, added support for unit testing frameworks like Google Test and Catch, and expanded cross-platform compatibility across Windows, Linux, and macOS. As CLion matured, it introduced version control integration, static code inspections, and remote development workflows—features that made it especially attractive for professionals working with large codebases in performance-critical fields such as finance and scientific computing. By the late 2010s, JetBrains had extended CLion’s ecosystem with plugins for other languages, while ensuring ongoing support for the newest C++ standards, including C++20. In parallel, profiling and memory analysis tools were refined, helping developers optimize applications where speed and reliability are paramount. Today, CLion is widely recognized as one of the best C++ IDEs for quantitative finance and continues to evolve in lockstep with modern toolchains and the ever-advancing C++ language.

2. Features of CLion

Lion is a powerful cross-platform IDE designed specifically for C and C++ developers. It comes with a smart editor that understands your code, offering intelligent completion, quick navigation, and safe refactoring options. Built around CMake, CLion makes project setup seamless and integrates smoothly with modern development workflows. Debugging is one of its strongest points: you get inline variable views, breakpoints, watches, and even a memory view to inspect raw data. The IDE also supports unit testing frameworks like Google Test and Catch, making it easy to validate your code. For performance and reliability, CLion integrates tools such as Valgrind, sanitizers, and profiling utilities, helping you catch memory leaks and optimize execution speed. If you work with embedded systems or remote environments, CLion has you covered with remote development, WSL, and Docker support. In my view, it makes of CLIon the best C++ IDE for quant devs.

Developers can also benefit from built-in version control, database tools, and Python scripting extensions, creating a versatile environment beyond just C++. Add in live templates, code generation, and regular JetBrains updates, and you get an IDE that feels modern, customizable, and designed for the day-to-day challenges of quantitative development.

3. CLion vs VSCode

When it comes to C++ development, many developers weigh the pros and cons of CLion versus Visual Studio Code. CLion, built by JetBrains, is a fully integrated development environment with deep, language-specific intelligence. It offers features like CMake integration, refactoring, debugging with inline variable views, and profiling tools right out of the box. VS Code, on the other hand, is a lightweight code editor that becomes powerful through its ecosystem of extensions. While VS Code is free, flexible, and supports a wide range of languages, it often requires careful setup and configuration to reach the level of productivity CLion provides by default. For example, debugging in VS Code depends heavily on extensions and manual configuration, whereas in CLion it is seamless and deeply integrated. CLion also includes static analysis, sanitizers, and unit test integration without extra effort, making it ideal for large, professional C++ projects where reliability matters. VS Code, however, shines in terms of speed, customizability, and being lightweight, which can make it more attractive for smaller projects or developers who like to fine-tune their setup.

nother key difference is cost: CLion requires a paid subscription, while VS Code is entirely free. For teams working in quantitative finance or other performance-sensitive fields, CLion’s all-in-one tooling can save significant development time. But for hobbyists, students, or developers who prefer a modular and flexible approach, VS Code remains a strong choice. In the end, the decision often comes down to whether you value a complete, ready-to-go IDE (CLion) or a lightweight, customizable editor (VS Code). CLIon is the best C++ IDE for quant devs.

4.Pricing

CLion is a commercial product from JetBrains, which means it comes with a subscription model rather than being completely free like many editors. Pricing is flexible, depending on whether you’re an individual developer, a business, or part of an educational institution. For individual users, JetBrains offers monthly and yearly subscription options, with the yearly plan providing a discount compared to paying month by month. Businesses pay a higher rate per seat, but they also get centralized license management and dedicated support. CLion is also part of the JetBrains All Products Pack, which unlocks every JetBrains IDE: a great option if you work across multiple languages like Python, Java, or Kotlin alongside C++. Students and teachers can get free licenses, while open-source contributors may also qualify for complimentary access. Another detail is JetBrains’ progressive pricing: the longer you stay subscribed, the cheaper the renewal becomes after the first and second year. This rewards long-term users and makes it more affordable to stick with CLion over time. There’s also a 30-day free trial, so you can explore the full feature set before committing. For companies, volume discounts are available when purchasing multiple licenses. But there is also a free version of CLion now, available for non-commercial use.

This means students, hobby developers, content creators, or open-source contributors can access the full IDE without cost. The free edition has the same features as the paid one, from debugging to refactoring and profiling. The only limitation is with “Code With Me,” where you get the community version instead of the full package. For anyone learning C++ or experimenting with projects at home, this makes CLion highly accessible. JetBrains’ move aims to lower the barrier for newcomers and grow the C++ developer community. If you later decide to use CLion in a professional or commercial setting, you can simply upgrade to a paid license. Until then, the free license ensures you don’t miss out on the IDE’s advanced tooling. It’s a strong balance between supporting professionals and empowering learners.

5. Conclusion

In conclusion, CLion stands out as a professional-grade IDE built specifically for C and C++ developers: probably the best C++ IDE for quant devs. Its deep language intelligence, powerful debugging tools, and seamless CMake integration make it a reliable choice for large and complex projects. Compared to lighter editors like VS Code, CLion offers a ready-to-use environment with everything included from the start. The new free non-commercial license also opens the door for students, hobbyists, and open-source contributors to benefit from its advanced features. For businesses and professionals, the paid subscription ensures ongoing updates, dedicated support, and long-term value. CLion is not just about editing code; it’s about making development faster, safer, and more productive. Whether you are learning C++, building quantitative finance models, or working on production-grade systems, CLion provides the tools you need in one place. Ultimately, it combines the depth of a full IDE with the flexibility modern developers expect, making it a strong contender for anyone serious about C++.

September 22, 2025 0 comments

News

Top Biotech Innovations, Finance News, and AI Trends for Healthcare

by Clement D. September 22, 2025

As investors navigate the ever-evolving financial landscape, today’s news offers valuable insights into portfolio management and market sentiment. Consider the case of Fierce Biotech’s “Fierce 15” list, which highlights firms tackling diseases in new and innovative ways. This report serves as a reminder that staying ahead of the curve in the biotech industry can yield significant rewards for savvy investors.

Elsewhere, the Houston-based RNGR CEO’s excitement about being a founding member of the NYSE Texas underscores the importance of regional economic developments and their impact on investment opportunities. Similarly, the Iambic CEO’s claim that AI can reduce the time from program launch to clinic to just two years has the potential to reshape the pharmaceutical industry, presenting both risks and rewards for portfolio managers.

Finally, the impact of the Federal Reserve’s rate cut on U.S. and foreign policy amid the United Nations General Assembly reinforces the interconnectedness of global events and their influence on financial markets. As investors navigate these complex dynamics, staying informed and adaptable will be key to achieving long-term success.

🎥 Fierce Biotech’s ‘Fierce 15’ List Highlights Firms Tackling Diseases in New Ways (New York Stock Exchange)

The video highlights Fierce Biotech’s “Fierce 15” list, which showcases biotechnology companies that are tackling diseases in innovative ways. The presentation emphasizes the importance of these firms’ novel approaches, which have the potential to disrupt traditional treatment methods and address unmet medical needs. By identifying these emerging players, the video provides investors and industry stakeholders with insights into the dynamic landscape of the biotech sector, where groundbreaking discoveries and technological advancements are reshaping the future of healthcare. The market implications of the “Fierce 15” list are significant, as it spotlights investment opportunities in companies that are pioneering new frontiers in disease management and therapeutic development.

🎥 Houston Based RNGR CEO ‘It Means a Lot’ to be Founding Member of NYSE Texas (New York Stock Exchange)

In a groundbreaking move, the CEO of Houston-based RNGR, a leading player in the renewable energy sector, has been named a founding member of the New York Stock Exchange’s (NYSE) new Texas-based exchange. This prestigious appointment underscores the company’s growing influence and the rising prominence of the Lone Star State as a hub for sustainable finance. The CEO’s commentary on the significance of this milestone, noting that “it means a lot,” suggests a deep sense of pride and commitment to the state’s economic development. As the industry continues to evolve, this strategic partnership with the NYSE is poised to enhance RNGR’s visibility and access to capital, potentially paving the way for further expansion and innovation within the renewable energy landscape.

🎥 Iambic CEO Says AI Can Reduce Time from Program Launch to Clinic to Two Years (New York Stock Exchange)

This study presents an analysis of a video featuring the CEO of Iambic, a leading biotechnology company, discussing the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to accelerate the drug development process. The CEO emphasizes that by leveraging AI technologies, the time required to progress from program launch to clinical trials can be reduced to as little as two years, a significant improvement over the industry’s traditional timelines. The key findings highlight the CEO’s perspective on how AI-driven approaches can streamline various stages of the drug development lifecycle, from target identification to preclinical studies and clinical trial design. The video offers insights into the strategic implications of these advancements for the biopharmaceutical industry, particularly in the context of improving patient access to innovative therapies and enhancing the overall efficiency of the drug development pipeline.

🎥 Impact of Fed Cut on U S + Foreign Policy Amid U N General Assembly (New York Stock Exchange)

In a recent video, financial experts delved into the profound implications of the Federal Reserve’s interest rate cut on both domestic and international economic policies. Coinciding with the United Nations General Assembly, this decision has sparked a nuanced discussion on its far-reaching consequences. The video underscores the critical role of the Fed’s monetary policies in shaping the global financial landscape, particularly in the context of geopolitical dynamics and trade negotiations. By analyzing the intricate interplay between U.S. fiscal policies and their international reverberations, the video offers valuable insights for policymakers, investors, and the broader financial community. The key themes explored include the potential impact on currency markets, the influence on cross-border capital flows, and the delicate balance between domestic economic stability and diplomatic relations.

♟️ Interested in More?

Read the latest financial news: c++ for quants news.

September 22, 2025 0 comments

News

Navigating Austerity Protests, China’s Chip Ban, and Fed Rate Cuts

by Clement D. September 18, 2025

Volatility in the bond market signals a pivotal moment for quants as the Fed navigates a delicate balancing act amidst economic headwinds and geopolitical uncertainty.

In our coverage, we’ll examine the implications of the Fed’s policy decision, the ongoing protests in France, and the political factors behind China’s semiconductor restrictions. Additionally, we’ll provide insights on the challenges the central bank faces in the road ahead.

First, we’ll dive into the “3-Minute MLIV” video, which offers a concise analysis of the evolving Fed policy landscape and its potential impact on markets. Then, we’ll explore the “Fed Cuts Rates; Israel Hinders Two-State Solution” report, which delves into the broader macroeconomic and geopolitical context shaping the central bank’s decisions.

Finally, we’ll consider the “The Political Factor in China’s Ban of One Nvidia Chip” video, which sheds light on the intricate interplay of technology, trade, and national security that is reshaping the global semiconductor industry.

By framing these key developments through the lens of risk, opportunity, and uncertainty, we aim to provide our readers with a comprehensive understanding of the forces driving the finance sector in these turbulent times.

🎥 France Protests Over Budget Cuts Raise Pressure on New PM Lecornu (Bloomberg)

The video highlights the widespread anti-austerity protests in France led by major labor organizations, as newly-appointed Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu struggles to find allies to piece together a budget. The protests are a response to the spending cuts proposed in July, which the unions view as “unprecedented brutality.” The report from Bloomberg’s Alan Katz underscores the mounting pressure on the new Prime Minister to address the concerns of the protesters and find a way to balance the budget without resorting to unpopular austerity measures.

🎥 The Political Factor in China’s Ban of One Nvidia Chip |Insight with Haslinda Amin 9/18/2025 (Bloomberg)

The video examines the political factors behind China’s ban on a specific Nvidia chip with AI applications. It features an interview with Haslinda Amin, the host of the news program “Insight,” who delves into the implications of this decision and its broader context. The discussion covers the Fed’s recent interest rate cut, the outlook on inflation, and China’s consumption trends, as well as an exclusive interview with the CEO of Bank of America. The video provides a comprehensive analysis of the economic and geopolitical dynamics shaping these events.

🎥 Fed Policy Will Only Get Harder From Here: 3-Minute MLIV (Bloomberg)

Investing in the current market environment requires a cautious approach as the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy decisions are set to become increasingly challenging. The video, “Fed Policy Will Only Get Harder From Here: 3-Minute MLIV,” provides valuable insights for analysts and investors. It highlights the risks and opportunities associated with the Fed’s future actions, as well as the prevailing market sentiment. Notably, the discussion delves into the potential for further rate cuts or a pause in the tightening cycle, as well as the implications of the upcoming Bank of England rate decision and the accuracy of the jobless claims data. Navigating these complex dynamics will be crucial for investors seeking to make informed decisions and position their portfolios for success in the evolving market landscape.

🎥 Fed Cuts Rates; Israel Hinders Two-State Solution | Horizons Middle East & Africa 09/18/2025 (Bloomberg)

The Federal Reserve’s decision to cut interest rates by 25 basis points, the first such move this year, reflects broader economic trends that are shaping the global financial landscape. This decision comes amidst growing concerns over the potential impact of the ongoing trade tensions and slowing global growth. Additionally, the episode delves into the complex geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East, with a focus on Israel’s activities in the West Bank and their implications for the viability of a two-state solution. The program also explores the technological advancements in the region, including Huawei’s unveiling of a new AI chip to challenge the dominance of industry giants like Nvidia. Overall, the diverse range of topics covered in this episode provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the economic and geopolitical forces shaping the Middle East and Africa region.

♟️ Interested in More?

Read the latest financial news: c++ for quants news.

September 18, 2025 0 comments

News

EM Gains as USD Falls: 3-Minute Market Insights

by Clement D. September 16, 2025

The recent depreciation of the US dollar against emerging market currencies has presented clear opportunities for quantitative traders, as evidenced by the analysis provided in the MLIV video “Clearest Plays Are EM Gains as USD Falls: 3-Minute MLIV.” Additionally, the upcoming call between Presidents Trump and Xi, as discussed in the “Daybreak Europe” and “The China Show” videos, may further impact global financial markets and warrant close attention from quantitative analysts. Furthermore, the Federal Reserve’s expected rate cut and the potential risks in the labor market, as highlighted in the “September Markets in Focus” video, will be crucial factors for quants to monitor in the current economic landscape.

🎥 Clearest Plays Are EM Gains as USD Falls: 3-Minute MLIV (Bloomberg)

The video segment provides a concise overview of key market themes and developments discussed by Bloomberg analysts and journalists. The analysts confirm the nomination of Lisa Cook for a Federal Reserve post, while also addressing the recent dismissal of a Fed official. Additionally, the video highlights the declining US dollar and the potential opportunities in emerging market currencies and Asian stocks. The presentation delivers a structured, objective assessment of the market insights covered in the 3-minute segment.

🎥 Trump-Xi Call Friday & Fed’s Lisa Cook Can Stay, Miran Confirmed | Daybreak Europe 9/16/2025 (Bloomberg)

The Trump administration’s nominee for the Federal Reserve, Stephen Miran, has been confirmed, while the president’s attempt to remove Lisa Cook from the central bank has been blocked by the courts. Ahead of the Fed’s upcoming rate decision, the S&P 500 index has reached a new record high. On the geopolitical front, President Trump will hold a call with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday, following a framework agreement reached between U.S. and Chinese officials in Madrid to keep the TikTok app running in the U.S. Additionally, the SEC is prioritizing a proposal by the Trump administration to change the frequency of corporate reporting from quarterly to semi-annual. Meanwhile, Google has announced a £5 billion investment in AI in the UK, and the president is expected to unveil over $10 billion in deals during his upcoming state visit.

🎥 September Markets in Focus: Fed Cuts, Labor Market Risks, and Investor Resilience (New York Stock Exchange)

As an investment strategist, the recent video on September markets offers a nuanced perspective on the economic landscape. The expected Federal Reserve rate cut takes center stage, with the potential to provide short-term relief, but the more significant challenge lies in stabilizing the labor market. The downward revision of 911,000 jobs serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the risks facing the employment sector. However, strong earnings and the momentum of artificial intelligence provide glimmers of opportunity amidst the uncertainty. Investors will closely scrutinize the messaging from Federal Reserve Chair Powell, as his words could shape market sentiment in the weeks ahead. While the video paints a complex picture, the overarching message is one of resilience, as the markets navigate the delicate balance between policy decisions and fundamental economic indicators.

🎥 Trump, Xi To Speak This Week | The China Show 9/16/2025 (Bloomberg)

The upcoming call between President Trump and China’s President Xi Jinping presents a quantitative insight into the evolving U.S.-China trade relationship. Data from the clip reveals a scheduled meeting on Friday, signaling a potential shift in the ongoing tensions between the world’s two largest economies. Investors will be closely watching for any statistical signals or anomalies that may emerge from the high-level discussions, as they seek to gauge the trajectory of this critical geopolitical and economic dynamic.

♟️ Interested in More?

Read the latest financial news: c++ for quants news.

September 16, 2025 0 comments

News

Mastering Scoped Timers in C++: Optimize Your Finance Workflows

by Clement D. September 14, 2025

Contrary to market expectations, the trading session opened on a muted note, as investors remained cautious ahead of the upcoming economic data releases. As a strategist, we must maintain a forward-looking perspective and analyze the potential implications for the markets.

In this article, we will explore the concept of a “scoped timer” in C++, a useful tool for developers to measure the execution time of their code. Scoped Timer In C++ will provide us with a deeper understanding of this feature and how it can be effectively utilized.

Additionally, we will delve into the strategies for maximizing the return on investment (ROI) for AI projects. The video “Maximizing ROI on AI Projects – Ai4 2025” will offer valuable insights on this topic, highlighting the importance of a well-planned and executed AI implementation.

Furthermore, we will discuss the emerging trend of “Traycer,” a tool that aims to revolutionize the way AI projects are planned and verified. The video “Traycer is INSANE… Cursor AI is Not Enough Anymore” will showcase the capabilities of this innovative solution and its potential impact on the AI development landscape.

Finally, we will explore the geopolitical dynamics surrounding the rare earth minerals market, with a focus on Brazil’s efforts to challenge China’s dominance. The video “How Brazil is Taking on China’s Grip on Rare Earths” will provide an in-depth analysis of this critical issue and its implications for the global economy.

As we navigate the complex and ever-evolving financial landscape, it is crucial to stay informed and adaptable. By leveraging the insights and resources presented in this article, we can better position ourselves to make informed decisions and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

🎥 Scoped Timer In C++ (Cpp nuts)

As a risk analyst, the video on “Scoped Timer in C++” presents both potential exposures and resilience factors for developers working with C++ programming. The use of a scoped timer, which measures the CPU time spent within a specific scope, can be a valuable tool for identifying performance bottlenecks and optimizing code efficiency. However, the implementation of such a timer introduces a level of complexity that, if not properly managed, could lead to vulnerabilities in the code. Developers must ensure that the timer is correctly initialized, configured, and integrated into the overall system architecture to mitigate the risk of unexpected behavior or resource leaks. Additionally, the video’s focus on multithreading and interview preparation suggests that the content may be targeted towards more experienced C++ programmers, potentially creating a barrier for less-seasoned developers. Overall, the video appears to offer a nuanced approach to a common C++ programming challenge, balancing the potential benefits of improved performance monitoring with the need for robust error handling and maintainable code.

🎥 Maximizing ROI on AI Projects – Ai4 2025 (Dimitri Bianco)

The video “Maximizing ROI on AI Projects – Ai4 2025” provides a concise and analytical overview of the key factors that influence the success or failure of AI projects and their return on investment (ROI). The presentation emphasizes that AI is a broad term, and many problems can be solved more cost-effectively using simple machine learning, statistical, and mathematical models rather than relying on complex language models. The main causes of AI project failures are identified as issues with planning, communication, data, and skills. The video offers practical insights on how to address these challenges and achieve positive ROI, drawing on industry research and expert perspectives. Overall, the presentation offers valuable guidance for organizations seeking to maximize the benefits of their AI investments.

🎥 Traycer is INSANE… Cursor AI is Not Enough Anymore (AI Lab)

This comprehensive video provides an in-depth exploration of how Traycer, an AI planning and verification tool, can enhance the Cursor AI workflow for more efficient and structured AI development. The presentation delves into the seamless integration of Cursor AI and Traycer, highlighting the latter’s ability to act as a planning and verification layer within the user’s integrated development environment (IDE). Viewers will learn how to leverage Cursor AI, including tips on using it in conjunction with Traycer’s breakdown and verification process. Additionally, the video covers Cursor AI’s free unlimited options, ways to use it for free, and the emergence of Traycer as a powerful Cursor AI alternative for structured AI development. The walkthrough showcases the complete Traycer process, from prompt analysis to breakdown, execution, and verification, while demonstrating the integration of AI coding and vibe coding workflows into the user’s existing stack. Overall, this video offers a valuable resource for developers seeking to optimize their AI project planning and implementation through the utilization of Traycer and Cursor AI.

🎥 How Brazil is Taking on China’s Grip on Rare Earths (Bloomberg)

The presentation of the video on how Brazil is taking on China’s grip on rare earths is structured in a didactic and conceptually rich manner suitable for graduate finance students. The analysis highlights that China currently controls nearly the entire supply chain for rare earths, which are critical minerals for industries such as electric vehicles, wind turbines, and fighter jets. However, Brazil is making efforts to challenge this dominance, with companies like Aclara building pilot plants and the government mapping vast reserves. The global race is on to break China’s grip on this strategic resource, which will require massive investment, technology, and international cooperation. The presentation emphasizes the importance of rare earths in the global economy and the geopolitical implications of China’s monopoly, as well as the potential for Brazil to disrupt this market.

♟️ Interested in More?

Read the latest c++ for quants news

September 14, 2025 0 comments

Interview Performance

Top C++ Interview Questions for Quants: Implement LRU Cache

by Clement D. September 14, 2025

One of the most common C++ interview questions for quantitative finance roles is the LRU (Least Recently Used) Cache. It looks simple at first, but it tests a candidate’s ability to design efficient data structures, balance time and space complexity, and leverage the C++ Standard Library effectively. How to solve one of the top C++ interview questions? Let’s dive in!

1. Problem Statement

Design and implement a Least Recently Used (LRU) Cache in C++. The cache should support the following operations:

get(key) → Return the value if the key exists in the cache; otherwise return “not found.” Accessing a key should mark it as the most recently used.
put(key, value) → Insert or update a key-value pair. If the cache exceeds its capacity, it must evict the least recently used item.

Requirements:

Both operations should run in O(1) average time complexity.
The cache should be limited to a fixed capacity defined at construction.
You may assume all keys are unique.
Iterators or pointers must remain valid during reordering.
The design should be clean, modern C++, using STL where appropriate.

This problem is a classic interview favorite because it tests understanding of hash maps, linked lists, and how to combine data structures for performance-critical systems.

2. Implementation

This is a suggestion of implementation:

#include <list>
#include <unordered_map>
#include <optional>
#include <iostream>
#include <string>

template <class Key, class Value>
class LRUCache {
public:
    explicit LRUCache(std::size_t capacity) : cap_(capacity) {}

    // Return value if present; moves the entry to the front (most-recently used).
    std::optional<Value> get(const Key& key) {
        auto it = idx_.find(key);
        if (it == idx_.end()) return std::nullopt;
        touch(it->second);                            // move node to front
        return entries_.front().second;               // value after touch
    }

    // Insert or update; moves/creates entry as most-recently used.
    void put(const Key& key, const Value& value) {
        auto it = idx_.find(key);
        if (it != idx_.end()) {
            // update value and move to front
            it->second->second = value;
            touch(it->second);
            return;
        }
        // evict if needed
        if (entries_.size() == cap_) {
            const Key& k_evict = entries_.back().first;
            idx_.erase(k_evict);
            entries_.pop_back();
        }
        // emplace new at front
        entries_.emplace_front(key, value);
        idx_[key] = entries_.begin();
    }

    bool contains(const Key& key) const { return idx_.count(key) != 0; }
    std::size_t size() const { return entries_.size(); }

private:
    using Node = std::pair<Key, Value>;
    using List = std::list<Node>;
    using Iter = typename List::iterator;

    void touch(Iter it) {
        // move node to front (MRU)
        entries_.splice(entries_.begin(), entries_, it);
    }

    std::size_t cap_;
    List entries_;                          // front = most-recently used
    std::unordered_map<Key, Iter> idx_;     // key -> node iterator
};


// —————————–
// Example main() for testing
// —————————–
int main() {
    LRUCache<int, std::string> cache(2);

    cache.put(1, “one”);
    cache.put(2, “two”);

    if (auto v = cache.get(1)) {
        std::cout << “Get 1: ” << *v << “\n”;  // prints “one”
    }

    cache.put(3, “three”); // evicts key 2

    if (auto v = cache.get(2)) {
        std::cout << “Get 2: ” << *v << “\n”;
    } else {
        std::cout << “Get 2: miss\n”;          // prints “miss”
    }

    if (auto v = cache.get(3)) {
        std::cout << “Get 3: ” << *v << “\n”;  // prints “three”
    }

    return 0;
}

#include <list>
#include <unordered_map>
#include <optional>
#include <iostream>
#include <string>

template <class Key, class Value>
class LRUCache {
public:
    explicit LRUCache(std::size_t capacity) : cap_(capacity) {}

    // Return value if present; moves the entry to the front (most-recently used).
    std::optional<Value> get(const Key& key) {
        auto it = idx_.find(key);
        if (it == idx_.end()) return std::nullopt;
        touch(it->second);                            // move node to front
        return entries_.front().second;               // value after touch
    }

    // Insert or update; moves/creates entry as most-recently used.
    void put(const Key& key, const Value& value) {
        auto it = idx_.find(key);
        if (it != idx_.end()) {
            // update value and move to front
            it->second->second = value;
            touch(it->second);
            return;
        }
        // evict if needed
        if (entries_.size() == cap_) {
            const Key& k_evict = entries_.back().first;
            idx_.erase(k_evict);
            entries_.pop_back();
        }
        // emplace new at front
        entries_.emplace_front(key, value);
        idx_[key] = entries_.begin();
    }

    bool contains(const Key& key) const { return idx_.count(key) != 0; }
    std::size_t size() const { return entries_.size(); }

private:
    using Node = std::pair<Key, Value>;
    using List = std::list<Node>;
    using Iter = typename List::iterator;

    void touch(Iter it) {
        // move node to front (MRU)
        entries_.splice(entries_.begin(), entries_, it);
    }

    std::size_t cap_;
    List entries_;                          // front = most-recently used
    std::unordered_map<Key, Iter> idx_;     // key -> node iterator
};


// -----------------------------
// Example main() for testing
// -----------------------------
int main() {
    LRUCache<int, std::string> cache(2);

    cache.put(1, "one");
    cache.put(2, "two");

    if (auto v = cache.get(1)) {
        std::cout << "Get 1: " << *v << "\n";  // prints "one"
    }

    cache.put(3, "three"); // evicts key 2

    if (auto v = cache.get(2)) {
        std::cout << "Get 2: " << *v << "\n";
    } else {
        std::cout << "Get 2: miss\n";          // prints "miss"
    }

    if (auto v = cache.get(3)) {
        std::cout << "Get 3: " << *v << "\n";  // prints "three"
    }

    return 0;
}

The cache is built with two core structures: a std::list to maintain the usage order (most recently used at the front, least at the back), and an unordered_map to allow O(1) access to list nodes. When get is called, we move the accessed node to the front of the list. When put is called, we either update an existing node and move it to the front, or insert a new one. If inserting exceeds the capacity, the node at the back (the least recently used) is evicted. This combination ensures that both operations run in O(1) average time.

3. Compilation and Execution

To compile the code, prepare a CMakeLists.txt:

cmake_minimum_required(VERSION 3.10)
project(lrucache)
set(CMAKE_CXX_STANDARD 17)
add_executable(lrucache ../lrucache.cpp)

and compile via cmake:

mkdir build
cd build
cmake ..
make

Then, you can execute it with:

➜  build git:(main) ✗ ./lrucache 
Get 1: one
Get 2: miss
Get 3: three

4. Access the code on Github

The code is accessible here for you to clone, compile and run with a README file for one of the top C++ interview questions:

https://github.com/cppforquants/lrucache

September 14, 2025 0 comments