Accounting and Finance

Financial Derivatives

Module code: N1559
Level 6
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Seminar
Assessment modes: Coursework, Computer based exam

You examine the markets and look at the trading and valuation of common derivative products such as forwards/futures, swaps and options, as well as equity and interest rate markets.

You look at practical applications of derivatives for hedging or investment purposes, including risk-return profiles, advantages and limitations.

You also explore fundamental concepts of no arbitage and risk neutral pricing and examine the Black Scholes formula. 

Module learning outcomes

• Describe the function of derivatives in financial markets and discuss their advantages and limitations.
• Identify, compare and evaluate the main derivative products commonly traded in equity, foreign exchange and interest rate markets, as well as some of the more exotic instruments.
• Explain the concept of no arbitrage and recognize the central role it places in derivatives pricing.
• Implement the binomial tree and Black-Scholes models to find the no arbitrage price of a range of derivative securities. Critically examine and debate the key assumptions and limitations of the approaches.