The University of New South Wales

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Undergraduate Handbook

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Financial Economics
 Business Strategy and Economic Management

Description

Financial Economics is concerned with understanding how financial instruments are priced in markets and how individuals and firms manage financial risk.

Markets for financial instruments arise because some firms and individuals want to borrow while others want to save. A large corporation, for example, may borrow funds to purchase new plant and equipment by issuing further stock while an individual may save by purchasing stocks or government bonds. Markets for financial instruments also arise because firms and individuals want to manage financial risk. For example, a large corporation may bet against the risk of large fluctuations in the Australian – U.S. dollar exchange rate by selling its goods by way of futures contracts. Understanding how the prices of financial instruments are determined in the market place is a central concern of financial economics, along with the design of new financial derivatives.

The area of financial economics that deals with the study of real-world data is known as financial econometrics. Financial econometrics is concerned with the statistical analysis of financial data and testing the real-world applicability of asset-pricing theories. This major provides students with a thorough understanding of the economic principles that underlie the pricing and allocative role of all financial assets, whether they are stocks, bonds, futures or options.

Studying Financial Economics at UNSW

Financial Economics can be studied as a major within the Bachelor of Commerce. Please refer to the table below for a complete list.



Financial Economics can be studied as 

Specialisation At the Level of Plan
Economics Major ECONA13408
   

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© The University of New South Wales (CRICOS Provider No.: 00098G), 2004-2011. The information contained in this Handbook is indicative only. While every effort is made to keep this information up-to-date, the University reserves the right to discontinue or vary arrangements, programs and courses at any time without notice and at its discretion. While the University will try to avoid or minimise any inconvenience, changes may also be made to programs, courses and staff after enrolment. The University may also set limits on the number of students in a course.