Financial Markets and Institutions

- Analyze Financial Market Structure and Function

Examine how primary and secondary markets operate, comparing exchange-based versus over-the-counter trading systems, and evaluate the benefits markets provide to participants in the financial system.

- Evaluate Institutional Business Models and Profit Strategies

Investigate how banks, investment firms, and market makers generate revenue from different market activities and client services.

- Assess Interest Rate Determination and Monetary Policy Impact

Analyze factors that influence various interest rate types, interpret yield curve dynamics, and evaluate how monetary policy tools affect interest rates and capital allocation.

- Examine Securities Markets and Financial Instruments

Compare money markets, bond markets, mortgage markets, stock markets, and foreign exchange markets, analyzing the purpose and behavior of financial instruments within each market.

- Analyze Market Dynamics and Price Discovery

Examine how geopolitical events, economic announcements, and market sentiment affect asset prices, including why markets often overreact initially then reverse course.

- Assess Market Structure and Trading Mechanisms

Compare high-frequency trading, algorithmic trading, and traditional trading methods, analyzing their impact on market efficiency and individual investors.