This module will examine how Excel can be used for financial data analysis.
A brief revision of each financial concept will be presented. The syllabus will typically cover:
Introduction to Excel:
• Basic functions, mathematical expressions
Data Analysis with Excel:
• Data analysis, charts, solver, goal seek, pitot tables and pivot charts
Financial Valuation:
• Applications of time value of money
• Applications of capital budgeting techniques in Excel (IRR, NPV, Scenario Analysis, Monte Carlo simulation)
• Company Valuation Models
Portfolio Analysis and Security Pricing:
• Portfolio models, calculations of efficient portfolios, variance-covariance matrix
• Beta coefficient estimations and security market line
• Bond Valuations
• Binomial option pricing, Black-Scholes model.
Total contact hours: 34
Private study hours: 116
Total study hours: 150
Main assessment methods
Individual Report - 1000 words (30%)
Individual Excel Based Report 2 (70%)
Reassessment methods
100% coursework
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
- demonstrate systematic understanding of key aspects of the use of Excel to solve financial problems
- demonstrate their ability in calculation and manipulation and capability to deploy accurately established approaches to analyse and solve problems in the following financial areas: Basic financial calculations, Monte Carlo simulation, Bond valuation, Derivative modelling and portfolio analysis
- Systematically apply key aspects of Excel for finance in well-defined contexts, showing judgement in the selection and application of tools and techniques
- demonstrate conceptual understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of financial approaches in project and asset valuation and in portfolio analysis
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
- make competent use of information technology skills and demonstrate an increased level of skill in numeracy and computation
- manage their time and use their organisational skills to plan and implement efficient and effective modes of working
- communicate straightforward arguments and conclusions reasonably accurately and clearly
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