Course Description

Course Name

Securities and Investment

Session: VSRS3122

20 SCQF Credits

FINU9F4 Finance II

Taught In English

The aim is to provide an overview of the main types of securities traded on the World?s capital markets,

providing detailed analysis of equity products, derivatives and bonds. Popular trading strategies are examined

including an introduction to short selling and pair trades that may be used by hedge funds, or other institutional

and private investors. The importance of benchmark indices and robust performance measurement techniques

for evaluating the performance of investment managers are also demonstrated. Ample attention is paid to the

valuation of forward, futures and options contracts. This includes the application of the well-known Black-Scholes

option pricing model. Students are given the chance to grapple with the key issues facing the investment industry

in a written group assignment and presentation. The course will provide an understanding of the main types of

securities and their derivatives, and of the markets in which they are traded. The fundamental characteristics of

securities and their derivatives will be examined in terms of their risk and marketability. Course participants will

be expected both to demonstrate an ability for practical application of the valuation and measurement

techniques covered in the course, and also familiarity with relevant academic finance literature, particularly

empirical studies.

*Course content subject to change