Banking and Financial Institutions

3 units

This course is a study of financial intermediation. It first develops a conceptual framework for why and how financial institutions as intermediaries play a vital role in the functioning of the global economy, then examines applications to commercial banks, investment banks, mutual funds, hedge funds, broker-dealers, insurance companies, and more from the corporate perspective. We will also discuss current topics in financial regulations, challenges, and opportunities in the aftermath of the financial crises as well as the rise of AI. From this course, students will (1) develop familiarization with current practices of the institutions that make up the financial markets while understanding their vulnerabilities and changes over time, (2) understand the purpose of banking and other types of financial services in economic development and stability, and (3) assess job opportunities in the financial sector from the viewpoint of career development through case studies and guest speeches.