This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
The module will introduce students to the investment environment providing an explanation of the major types of markets in which the securities trade, the trading process and the main players in these markets. It will then follow with a detailed discussion of asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, real estate, commodities and so on. The module will also include a discussion on the asset pricing theories (capital asset pricing model, arbitrage pricing theory and multifactor models). It will mainly focus on the valuation techniques of financial securities, in particular stocks, bonds, and derivative contracts. The module will also introduce students to the CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct.
Topics to be included in this module are as follows:
- Investment Environment
- Asset classes and financial instruments
- Trading of Securities
- CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct
- Review of Equilibrium in Capital Markets (Capital Asset Pricing Model, Efficient Market Hypothesis, Arbitrage Pricing Theory, Multifactor models)
- Technical and Fundamental Analysis
- Security Analysis: Macroeconomic and industry analysis
- Equity Valuation Models
- Financial Statement Analysis
- Bond prices and yields
- Term structure of interest rates
- Derivative contracts
The module will be taught by lectures, seminars and private study.
Total Contact Hours: 32
Private Study Hours: 118
Main assessment methods
Exam – Two Hours, closed book: 70%
Group Report – 2000 words: 30%
Reassessment methods
100% examination
Core reading
Kane, A., Marcus, A. and Bodie, Z. (2016). Essentials of Investments, 10th Edition, Columbus, OH: McGraw-Hill Education ISBN 9780077835422.
Codes, Standards, and Position Papers, Standards of Practice Handbook. (2014). 11th Edition, London: CFA
Additional reading
Fabozzi, F. and Markowitz, H. (2011). The theory and practice of investment management. 2nd Edition. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley and Sons.
Reilly, F. K. and Brown. C.K. (2011). Investment Analysis and Portfolio Management. 10th Edition. Boston, MA: Cengage Learning.
See the library reading list for this module (Medway)
8. The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
8.1. Demonstrate knowledge of the investment environment, asset classes and financial instruments.
8.2. Demonstrate understanding of trading process and key players in the financial markets.
8.3. Demonstrate critical assessment of theoretical pricing models.
8.4. Demonstrate knowledge of valuation techniques for equity, fixed-income instruments and derivative contracts.
8.5. Demonstrate knowledge of CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct.
9. The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
9.1. Plan work, use relevant sources and study independently.
9.2. Apply quantitative and problem solving techniques to complex financial data.
9.3. Synthesise arguments and assumptions, and make judgements to offer alternative solutions.
9.4. Demonstrate effective communication skills.
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