FIN 340: Financial Markets and Institutions

Course Description

This course introduces students to U.S. financial markets and institutions, explaining how they operate, how they promote economic growth and well-being, and how they malfunction in financial crises. Among the financial markets examined are those for short-term debt, mortgages, government and corporate bonds and equity. Financial institutions studied include investment banks, commercial banks and savings institutions, pension plans, mutual funds, hedge funds, and private equity funds. The course also examines the role of the Federal Reserve in the financial system and the nature and purpose of financial regulation.