Optiver
Global Market Maker
Overview
Optiver is a leading global market maker, founded in Amsterdam. Known for its emphasis on mental math, quick decision making, and trading games during interviews. Strong presence in options and ETF markets.
Interview Process
Online Assessment
60-90 minutesFamous '80 in 8' mental math test (80 questions in 8 minutes), followed by sequence identification and probability puzzles.
Reflex/Trading Game
15-30 minutesInteractive games testing speed, accuracy, and decision-making under pressure.
Technical Interview
45-60 minutesInterview with a trader covering brain teasers, probability questions, and market scenarios. Tests logical reasoning.
Onsite/Final Round
Half to full dayMultiple interviews including trading simulations, more technical questions, and behavioral assessment.
Roles & Tracks
Quantitative Trader
Make markets and trade across asset classes. Focus on quick decision making and risk management.
Quantitative Researcher
Develop trading strategies and pricing models. Research-focused role supporting trading desks.
Software Engineer
Build trading systems and market data infrastructure. Focus on low-latency and reliability.
Compensation (2026)
Compensation varies by location (Amsterdam vs Chicago vs Sydney). Strong bonus culture tied to firm and individual performance.
Preparation Tips
- Mental math is critical - practice '80 in 8' format daily
- Use Optiver's practice tests if available
- Review probability and expected value concepts
- Practice making quick decisions under pressure
- Understand options and market making basics
- Research Optiver's different office locations and cultures
Practice Mental Math
Sharpen your arithmetic speed for Optiver interviews with our free mental math games.
Frequently Asked Questions
The 80 in 8 is a mental math test where you solve 80 arithmetic problems in 8 minutes. Questions include addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and percentages. Speed and accuracy both matter.
Optiver has offices in Amsterdam, Chicago, Sydney, Singapore, and others. Amsterdam is the headquarters with the largest team. Chicago focuses on US markets. Each office has a slightly different culture but similar technical standards.
Very important. The 80 in 8 test is a core screening mechanism. Even if you pass, you'll face mental math questions throughout the process. Practice daily for several weeks before applying.
Yes, Optiver hires from diverse backgrounds including math, physics, computer science, and engineering. Finance knowledge is taught on the job. Strong quantitative and problem-solving skills are the key requirements.
Practice Optiver Interview Questions
Access real interview questions tagged to Optiver. Filter by role, difficulty, and topic.