This module provides an introduction to modern finance and financial markets. Core elements of corporate finance are examined in the broader context of the working of financial markets and institutions, and the pricing of financial assets. We will discuss key analytical concepts, tools and theories of financial decision making and the functioning of financial markets, and examine empirical information about trends in the global financial system.
The teaching/learning experience will involve workshops comprising a combination of lecture and seminar components, and guided independent study. Lecture component of the workshops are designed to introduce students to the key elements of each topic and provide the basis for further independent reading and solving of problem sets. Seminar component of the workshops offer an opportunity for critical discussion and review of problem sets. Completing a case study of an investment project appraisal provides practical experience in capital budgeting.
Definitive UNISTATS Category | Indicative Description | Hours |
---|---|---|
Scheduled learning and teaching | Workshop | 66 |
Guided independent study | Recommended reading and solving problem sets | 110 |
Guided independent study | Preparation of coursework case study | 40 |
Guided independent study | General independent study and revision for class test and exam | 84 |
Total (number of credits x 10) | 300 |
Summative assessment will comprise: a written report (25%); a case study of a corporate investment appraisal exercise to be submitted in the first half of the second semester (25%); and a two hour end of module examination (50%).
A range of formative assessments undertaken both in class and during independent study will be set on a weekly basis on the content covered in the week's lecture component of the workshops. This will allow students to monitor their progress and provide a basis for feedback from the module leader and discussions with the personal tutor.
Learning Outcome | Assessment Strategy |
---|---|
1) Explain key concepts of finance, the role of different financial institutions and markets, and recent developments in financial systems. | Written report/examination |
2) Explain key features of different financial instruments and solve quantitative exercises related to the pricing of financial assets. | Written report/examination |
3) Evaluate corporate investment projects using different appraisal methods; explain and estimate the opportunity cost of capital. | Coursework case study/examination |
4) Assess the advantages and disadvantages of different financing strategies for a corporation. | Examination |
5) Demonstrate proficiency in obtaining and analysing financial data. | Written report/coursework case study |
Description of Assessment | Definitive UNISTATS Categories | Percentage |
---|---|---|
Coursework | Written report | 25 |
Coursework | Case study of investment project appraisal | 25 |
Written Exam | Two hour unseen examination | 50 |
Total (to equal 100%) | 100% |
It IS NOT a requirement that any element of assessment is passed separately in order to achieve an overall pass for the module.
Berk, J. and DeMarzo, P. (2011) Corporate Finance. Global Edition. Second Edition. Boston: Prentice Hall
Brealey, R.A., Myers, S.C. and Marcus, A.J. (2012) Fundamentals of Corporate Finance. International Edition. 7th Edition. New York: McGraw-Hill
Cecchetti, S.G. and Schoenholtz, K.L.(2011) Money, Banking and Financial Markets. Global Edition. Third Edition. New York: McGraw-Hill
Bodie, Z., R.C. Merton and Cleeton, D.L. (2009) Financial Economics. Second Edition. UpperSaddleRiverNJ: Prentice Hall
Vaitilingam, R. (2011) The Financial Times Guide to Using the Financial Pages. 6th Edition. Harlow (UK): Pearson Education