The future investment stars are already with us. The NYSE Financial Future Challenge, operated by the NYSE Foundation, By Kids for Kids, K12 Inc. and the United Investors Association, is in full swing, with five finalists just identified. To reach this level, the participants had to develop a new product, idea or process that would "excite, educate and motivate their peers" to become interested in the financial marketplace. The eventual winner lurks within this subset and will receive a $2,500 prize -- a great way to get that portfolio started. And, he or she will be feted at a closing bell ceremony at the NYSE (NYX) on January 11, 2010.

The finalists presented a variety of ideas which are sure to generate some buzz. Kelsey Foss, a 12-year-old from Mountainville, NY, proposed a new television show, "Stock Market Tycoon Idol," which would harness the popularity of reality TV while amping up the content. The program would involve the journeys of 10 kids as they seek to make money or lose it, with the possibility of becoming virtual millionaires along the way. The show would be set at a mock NYSE studio on Wall Street, and exports would be brought out to mentor the contestants. The reality TV reach would help engage a younger audience.

K12 Inc. (NYSE: LRN) offers proprietary curriculum, software, and educational services for online delivery to students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Products include online public schools and individualized supplemental programs offered through traditional public schools. The firm also operates the K12 International Academy, a diploma-granting online private school. Courses cover core subjects, such as English, math, science, history and art. K12 serves more than 40,000 students.

The company pleased investors last week, when it reported a fiscal Q4 loss of a penny per share and revenues of $56.5 million. Analysts had been looking for a five cent per share deficit and sales of $47.8 million. Management also said it expected enrollment growth to drive FY09 revenues past $300 million ($283.12M consensus). Argus subsequently reiterated its "buy" rating on the shares and boosted its price target to $33.