Course overview
This course will introduce students to the financial markets relevant to the conduct of international financial transactions, and to the financial systems of the world's major economies. The international financial environment, markets and instruments of international finance; types and characteristics of the key financial markets affecting foreign exchange transactions; the spot, forward, eurocurrency and eurobond markets; the macroeconomic risk environment facing the firm; the impact of economic policy decisions on key international financial variables; the parity conditions; models of the exchange rate; the identification, measurement and management of international financial risk at the level of the individual enterprise; the distinction between risk management and speculation in international finance; the use of forwards, futures, options, swaps and other derivatives in the risk management process; the foreign investment and financing decision.
Course learning outcomes
- Discuss the nature and role of the major international financial institutions and financial markets, their operation and their impact on Australia's financial system and institutions.
- Describe the impact of the similarities and differences between the financial systems of the world's major economies on both their operation and recent performance.
- Interpret and use information on spot and forward exchange rates, interest rates and the financial instruments linked to these variables.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the parity relationships linking spot and forward exchange rates to nationally and globally established interest rates and price levels.
- Explain the use of foreign borrowings as an alternative source of capital to domestic loans.
- Identify the sources and importance of the foreign exchange risks faced by internationally oriented firms; and recommend methods and financial instrument including financial derivatives, to manage the risks.
- Demonstrate UniSA Business Enterprise Skills: i) Problem Solving (advanced level); and ii) International Perspective (advanced level).