Description

Financial
markets represent the lifeblood of our global economy. These mechanisms promote
greater economic efficiency by transferring funds from individuals, businesses
and governments with an excess of available funds to those with a shortage.
Funds are transferred in the financial markets through the purchase and sale of
financial instruments (such as stocks and bonds). Short-term financial
instruments are available in money markets, while longer-term financial
instruments are purchased and sold in the world’s capital markets. Many
financial markets have been in existence for hundreds of years; however, the
modern era has brought along many new innovations such as securitizations,
derivatives, and cryptocurrencies.

This course serves as an
introduction to financial markets and financial intermediaries. It reviews the
unique characteristics of financial markets, as well as the types of financial
instruments available in these markets. It also covers some key aspects of the
efficient market hypothesis, and the roles and types of financial
intermediaries (such as banks, insurance companies, and others).