ICM103-Quantitative Methods for Finance

Module Provider: ICMA Centre
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Prof Mike Clements
Email: m.p.clements@icmacentre.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module will be taught by Prof Mike Clements & Dr Lisa Schopohl

This module equips you with the quantitative tools used by market participants and researchers. The module uses a mixture of (1) lectures where the theory and concepts are introduced and (2) seminars and workshops where we apply the knowledge to practical cases.

Aims:

The objective of the module is to give students an introduction to econometrics so that they might understand the analytical techniques used in the finance research literature. Via case studies and computer modelling exercises, students then learn how to apply these techniques to real data. Emphasis is placed on practical applications of the techniques in the global financial markets.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module, it is expected that the student will be able to:

• Explain the fundamentals of the statistical theory underlying the tools employed to estimate and test econometric models, and be able to apply this knowledge to select appropriate estimation techniques and models given the data at hand, and appropriate ways of testing hypotheses of interest.  


• Apply the concepts and techniques to analyse and discuss the results from an estimated econometric model


• Apply a critical awareness of the concepts and techniques, including their limitations, to the use made of econometrics in the published academic finance literature.

Additional outcomes:

The module also aims to encourage the development of IT skills and in particular the manipulation of data using statistical software packages. Students will also improve their ability to translate abstract theoretical concepts into practical solutions to financial problems.

Outline content:

Topic 1 Simple linear regression

Topic 2 Hypothesis testing

Topic 3 Multiple regression: the Classical Linear Regression Model (CLRM)

Topic 4 Violations of the CLRM assumptions and diagnosis

Topic 5 Non-stationarity and testing for unit roots

Topic 6 Cointegration and error correction model

Topic 7 Econometric case studies in finance

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Core lectures supported by lab-based computer seminars and classroom based tutor led discussion.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

2-hour closed-book MCQ-based examination

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

There will be a group project which will include the estimation of econometric models and the use and interpretation of related techniques. The report should have a limit of 2,000 words. The submission deadline is in Weeks 10-11 of the term.

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:

Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:
50% weighted average mark

Reassessment arrangements:

By examination only, as part of the overall examination arrangements for the MSc programme.

Re-sit examination to be taken in August/September.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books: Introductory Econometrics for Finance, Chris Brooks, 4th Edition, Cambridge University Press, £49.99.

2) Specialist equipment or materials:

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:

4) Printing and binding:

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 16 April 2021