I recently attended a screening of “Tune Out the Noise,” an incredible documentary about a group of unlikely but brilliant upstarts who revolutionized investing in the mid-20^th century by harnessing the emerging power of computers and data. More than 225 were in attendance, including around 175 economics and finance students, along with many community members from financial institutions.

We were joined by two of the documentary’s main subjects, Mr. Rex Sinquefield and Curator Jeanne Cairns Sinquefield, PhD. Together with David Booth (a Kansas-native), the Sinquefields launched Dimension Fund Advisors and pioneered the first passive index funds. Key themes in the film include the principles of “markets are efficient over time” and “diversification in financial assets is your friend.” The impact of their work can be seen in the amount of assets invested in passive index funds that exceed $17 trillion. The documentary is directed by Oscar award-winning filmmaker Errol Morris and follows their remarkable story of perseverance over naysayers through grit, determination, focus and vision. The event was hosted by the College of Arts and Science.

After the screening, the Sinquefields joined Professor Jeff Milyo, chair of our Department of Economics, on-stage to discuss the film and answer a range of questions, including career advice for students. They also offered their expert perspectives on the future of investing. 

Mizzou is a top university for future leaders, and we are proud to prepare students to create new innovations with impact. It was great seeing the enthusiasm of our community and hearing firsthand how the Sinquefields changed the world.

You can see the movie here: dimensional.com/film.

— Mun