UPDATE: In a remarkable achievement today, 29-year-old Paulo Costa has been named the youngest managing director at Goldman Sachs for the year 2025. Costa, who is based in London, leads dividend trading within the bank’s equities division, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Costa’s promotion, announced earlier today, comes as the firm celebrates the appointment of 638 new managing directors. This achievement reflects Costa’s exceptional performance during a year of growth for Goldman Sachs’ equities division, where revenues surged by 7% in the third quarter compared to last year.
As the news broke, Costa was surrounded by colleagues on the trading floor, where cheers and celebrations erupted. The call confirming his promotion was a moment of intense anticipation, especially as he listened to fellow traders receive their calls in succession. “When my call finally came, I felt a mix of excitement and disbelief,” he shared.
Costa oversees dividend trading in the bank’s synthetic products group, working closely with major investors like hedge funds to navigate complex financial contracts. His expertise has been pivotal in managing market fluctuations, including those seen during the COVID-19 pandemic and this year’s volatile trading conditions.
The emotional impact of the announcement was palpable, especially with his wife—a prime broker at Goldman—by his side. “She was definitely the first person I spoke to after the call,” Costa stated, reflecting on their journey together since they met at Goldman in 2018 and married earlier this year.
Born in Portugal to a family of doctors, Costa initially faced pressure to pursue a medical career, but his passion for finance took precedence. His early interest in market dynamics was sparked during the European sovereign crisis, leading him to undertake small trades as a child. “I never imagined that by 29, I would be reaching this level in my career,” he remarked.
Today’s announcement was celebrated with a Champagne toast on Goldman’s eighth floor, attended by regional leaders and fellow employees. The festivities continued with a larger gathering of around 150 people at a local venue, where colleagues and mentors, including Lorenzo Longo, gathered to honor Costa’s achievement.
As he steps into this new role, Costa acknowledges the additional responsibilities that come with the title of managing director. “I don’t feel the need to change how I lead,” he explained. “But there is a certain gravitas that comes with this title.”
Costa’s journey from a young analyst to a managing director in such a competitive environment is inspiring, especially for those aspiring to follow in his footsteps. He advises future leaders to find their true interests and dedicate themselves to mastering their craft.
As Goldman Sachs continues to thrive, all eyes will be on Costa and his contributions to the firm’s future. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion in the fast-paced world of finance.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
