Citadel Securities is leading the charge in evolving coding standards, training engineers on a revolutionary version of C++ still under wraps.
You might think coding languages are unchanging—merely tools to bridge the gap between humans and machines. However, industry leader Herb Sutter of Citadel Securities sees them as living entities. “All the major languages that are in heavy use are living languages,” he told Business Insider. “That’s why we see C++, Rust, C, and Python continuing to evolve. Our landscape is always changing, and it’s important to stay abreast of those developments.”
Why Code Evolution Matters in Finance
As a prominent market maker, Citadel Securities must adeptly match buyers with sellers, providing liquidity for both institutional and retail investors across the globe. The firm’s expertise in C++ is invaluable; a language renowned for its speed and execution efficiency. This specialization helps ensure fewer coding errors and faster transaction times, crucial elements in high-frequency trading environments.
Sutter, who joined Citadel in 2024 after a notable stint at Microsoft, is pioneering the training initiatives centered on this powerful coding language. His role is pivotal in ensuring that Citadel remains at the forefront of coding advancements—particularly those that directly benefit Ken Griffin’s market-making operations. It’s an undeniable edge for aspiring coders, as knowledge of C++ can make candidates stand out, potentially leading to lucrative roles fetching upwards of $350,000 for positions requiring this expertise. For detailed job opportunities, check here.
Embracing Future Technologies
In a recent Q&A, Sutter shared insights on the firm’s anticipatory move towards a new C++ version, set for full release next year. Here are key takeaways from their conversation:
The Power of C++’s Async Framework
What is an async framework, and why is it crucial?
“Concurrency,” Sutter explains, “refers to doing multiple things at the same time—a growing necessity in today’s network-cloud world.” On the other hand, “parallelism” involves distributing large computations across various machines for quicker results.
The upcoming C++26’s async framework uniquely addresses both of these dimensions—synchronizing tasks while maximizing efficiency. For Citadel, where trading requests are constant and unpredictable, the importance of rapid responsiveness and efficient execution cannot be overstated.
Advantages of Being a First Mover
Sutter emphasizes the perks of being an early adopter of the new C++ standard. “Utilizing features that others may not implement for months or years solidifies muscle memory and fosters familiarity,” he notes. Additionally, as a user of the new standards in a production environment, Citadel has the unique opportunity to offer feedback and help shape the evolution of the language itself.
Tips for Aspiring Engineers
So, how can prospective hires demonstrate their C++ skills effectively?
Sharing enthusiasm for new features in C++26 is a great starting point. Candidates should articulate how these features have influenced their coding practices or personal projects. “Curiosity and a commitment to continuous learning is key,” Sutter advises, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.
Building Experience Early
“My advice to young engineers is to gain as much real-world experience as possible,” Sutter emphasizes. He credits his successful career to participating in a robust co-op program during his time at the University of Waterloo in Canada. He underscores that hands-on experience—not just theoretical knowledge—will differentiate successful candidates when solving business problems.
Ultimately, it’s crucial to blend technical skills with the ability to translate those skills into practical solutions that address commercial challenges.
In a sector where every millisecond counts, Citadel Securities is not just adapting to changes; it’s actively shaping the future of coding standards, making it an exciting time to be involved in finance and technology.
