FINN42215: Fundamentals of Finance

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• The main aim of this module is to provide a rigorous grounding in the theory of modern finance at an advanced level and a thorough synthesis of the most important current research in finance, with an emphasis on the applications of the principles and relevance of the theory to the practice of financial management. Both normative and positive aspects of financial theory are examined, together with supporting descriptive and empirical evidence.

• An introduction to the financial theory;
• The valuation of risky future cash flows;
• Stock valuation;
• Bond valuation;
• Risk & return and portfolio theory;
• Asset pricing models;
• Market efficiency;
• Introduction to options and futures contracts.

Subject-specific Knowledge:

• By the end of the module students should have:
• Advanced knowledge and critical understanding of essential components of modern finance theory and associated current research.
• Explored, understood and appreciated the complexity and contradictions of the current academic literature and its implications for professional financial management practice.
• Demonstrated ability to learn and work independently in finance, exercising critical judgement and discrimination in the resolution of complex problematic situations

Subject-specific Skills:

• Used highly specialised and advanced technical, professional and academic skills in the analysis of relevant specific problems in financial management.
• Had the opportunity to apply problem solving and analytical skills to issues in financial management in a complex specialised context.

Key Skills:

• Written Communication;
• Planning, Organising and Time Management;
• Problem Solving and analysis;
• Using initiative;
• Numeracy;
• Computer Literacy

• Combination of lectures; students' presentations and discussions in seminars will contribute to achieving the aims and learning outcomes of this module.
• Summative assessment by written online examination will test students' knowledge and understanding of the subject-matter, their critical judgement and problem-solving skills.

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