Josephine Chang, Equity Derivatives and QIS Sales, Mizuho Americas won Rising Star at 2026 Global Markets Choice Awards.

What does winning the Rising Star award mean to you at this stage of your career?

Winning this award is incredibly meaningful for me. Having spent half of my career in Asia and the other half in the U.S., this recognition feels like an important milestone. Every career has moments of challenge and transition, and over the past year I’ve experienced both. This award reminds me that staying resilient, remaining curious, and consistently showing up eventually pays off. It gives me confidence to continue pushing myself and taking on even greater challenges.

Which market trend are you watching most closely right now, and why?

I’m watching the deepening feedback loop between insurance balance sheets and private credit. As more annuity and structured solutions demand flows into the market, it is catalyzing real innovation in how risk is structured, and in how liquidity and credit exposures behave under stress. This dynamic sits squarely at the intersection of structured financing, insurance, and private markets, making it both the most compelling and the most impactful theme on my radar.

What qualities do you think define the next generation of market leaders?

Adaptive and Innovative. As markets, regulations, and technology evolve at an unprecedented pace, curiosity and continuous learning are becoming just as critical as technical expertise. Equally important is the ability to think outside the box. We’re entering an era where AI can provide generic answers and automate routine tasks. In this environment, differentiated thinking and creative problem solving will be more essential than ever.

What changes have you seen during your career, and what more needs to be done to help women advance into leadership roles across the industry?

I’ve seen encouraging progress over the course of my career. There are more women in front-office roles today, more visible female leaders, and a greater focus on mentorship and inclusion than when I first started. That said, representation at the most senior levels still has room to grow. I believe key priorities include ensuring women have access to career-defining opportunities, strong sponsorship, and clear, transparent pathways to leadership.