TL;DR
Adversary Argument for Finding the Maximum: A canonical quantitative trading interview question at foundation difficulty. Commonly asked at Jane Street, HRT.
By Valenke Exam Prep Team·Last updated 2026-06-01
foundationComplexity & Lower Bounds
Adversary Argument for Finding the Maximum
Asked at: Jane Street, HRT
Problem
Prove that finding the maximum of distinct numbers requires at least comparisons in the worst case. Then prove that finding both the maximum AND minimum simultaneously can be done in comparisons.
Related concepts
Ready to practice for the Valenke Finance Exam?
Adaptive practice powered by Item Response Theory targets your weak areas. Start with 3 free sessions.
Start free practice →