Module Specifications.
Current Academic Year 2024 - 2025
All Module information is indicative, and this portal is an interim interface pending the full upgrade of Coursebuilder and subsequent integration to the new DCU Student Information System (DCU Key).
As such, this is a point in time view of data which will be refreshed periodically. Some fields/data may not yet be available pending the completion of the full Coursebuilder upgrade and integration project. We will post status updates as they become available. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Date posted: September 2024
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Repeat examination Array |
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Description EF 307 Financial Markets. This module introduces Learners to international and domestic financial markets, and to the financial institutions and financial intermediation infrastructure that enables each of the private, public and sovereign interests that participate in these markets. In this module Learners will develop their knowledge of the functions of financial markets in providing access to capital and liquidity. They will also develop their knowledge of the principal types and characteristics of exchange-traded securities. Learners will develop the skills to value a range of these securities and to analyse the international investment environment within which they exist, with a particular emphasis on the trade-off between risk and return implicit in this environment. The module reflects on the role of international capital markets in providing solutions to the challenges facing the global economy at present including risk mitigation instruments, raising 'green' capital, and the growth of corporate social responsibility (CSR) investing.The module also reflects on the development of the New Financial Architecture and its relationship with more traditional market and security structures. This module is delivered through a combination of weekly lectures, tutorials and on-line learning tools, including loop quizzes. Learners are expected to attend lectures and tutorials and to engage in on-line learning and research activities on a regular basis. In addition students will undertake problem sets and read recommended expert articles. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Learning Outcomes 1. Explain and analyze individual equity stocks and stock markets. 2. Explain and analyze sovereign and other fixed income (bond) securities and bond markets. 3. Describe the use of derivatives. 4. Explain the principles of international portfolio diversification. 5. Explain and analyse the Funds Industry as a participant in global financial markets. 6. Analyse the role of traditional international capital markets in co-existence with the New Financial Architecture. 7. Analyse the role of international financial markets in providing solutions for the Greening of the global economy and the requirement for sustainability. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and Learning Activities
International Capital MarketsIn this section Learners will analyse the investment environment created by international capital markets and describe their function and structure. The process of financial intermediation will be explained and the purpose and benefits of securitisation. The implications for risk management will be considered, and the place of international capital markets in the context of the banking system.EquitiesThis section develops Learner's knowledge of the nature of equity investment within a market-wide risk and return framework. Learners will develop technical skills to value equities from a number of different perspectives.This section will consider the modes, and considerations of international equity investment, including phenomena such as corporate social responsibility (CSR) themed investing.Bonds and Money Market SecuritiesThis section provides a grounding in the principles of fixed income investment securities, including zero-coupon bonds, government and corporate bonds, green bonds, climate bonds and sustainability bonds. Learners will develop the skills to value fixed income securities, evaluate the role of monetary policy and inflation and to appraise the role bonds would play in an investment portfolio within a market-wide risk and return framework.Derivative Securities and Alternative InvestmentsThis section introduces Learners to derivative securities such as futures and options. Learners will develop their knowledge of the nature and investment characteristics of these securities.Principles of International Portfolio InvestmentThis section examines the theory of portfolio-based investment and builds Learner's knowledge of the benefits of diversification in a portfolio context and the implications for portfolio risk and how it may be quantified.The Funds IndustryThis section examines the application of Portfolio Theory in practice for example; Mutual Funds and Exchange Traded Funds. It also explores technical considerations in transacting in securities, bid/offer spread, buying on margin and short-selling.Financial Markets & The New Financial ArchitectureThis section introduces the still-emerging, financial architecture which includes distributed ledger technology, cryptocurrencies and other 'security' offerings and platforms, and analyses its relationship with extant financial markets and the banking system. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List
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Other Resources None | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||