Introduction Financial Markets

Topics Covered in This Course:

In Section 1 of this course you will cover these topics: Why study financial markets and institutions? Overview of the financial system What do interest rates mean and what is their role in valuation? In Section 2 of this course you will cover these topics: Why do interest rates change? How do risk and term structure affect interest rates? Are financial markets efficient? In Section 3 of this exam you will be evaluated on below listed topics: Structure of central banks and the federal reserve system Conduct of monetary policy: tools, goals, and targets The money markets In Section 4 of this course you will cover these topics: The bond market The stock market The mortgage markets The foreign exchange market In Section 5 of this course you will cover these topics: The international financial system Why do financial institutions exist? What should be done about conflicts of interest in the financial industry? Banking and the management of financial institutions Commercial banking industry: structure and competition Savings associations and credit unions Banking regulation The mutual fund industry Insurance companies and pension funds Investment banks, security brokers and dealers, and venture capital firms Risk management in financial institutions Hedging with financial derivatives Finance companies