FIN 414 - Operation of Financial Institutions

★ 3 (fi 6)(EITHER, 3-0-0)

Well-functioning capital markets are essential for economic growth. The allocation of scarce resources requires accurate prices and this includes accurate prices for investment capital (i.e., the cost of capital). This course examines the roles played by various financial intermediaries as they engage in activities that enhance the functionality of capital markets, the risks faced as they do so, and the ways that these risks are managed. At the end of this course you should understand the economic role of financial intermediaries in general, the risks faced by specific types of financial intermediaries as they fulfill their roles, and techniques for measuring and managing the risks. Success in this course requires a sound grasp of business fundamentals, critical thinking and problem solving, communication skills, and the application of quantitative methods. Prerequisite: FIN 301. Students may not receive credit for both FIN 414 and ECON 341.