Portfolio Management

DESCRIPTION:
This module provides a practical, hands-on experience in investment management and on the application of advanced trading strategies through a semester-long portfolio project

RATIONALE: 
The course builds on the classic investment theory with an emphasis on establishing appropriate investment objectives, measuring and managing investment risk and return. The course prepares future portfolio managers to handle efficiently the tools needed for selecting assets, managing risk and constructing optimal portfolios.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: 
As a result of taking this course, the student will be able to:
1. Demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of the merits of the application of portfolio theory in traditional and alternative asset classes
2. Discuss the role and the purpose of single and multifactor models and how these can be used to forecast return and risk of investment portfolios
3. Construct and manage a portfolio of securities, create an investment policy statement matching a client’s portfolio objectives and constraints.
4. Measure and evaluate portfolio performance and understand the key features of futures and options and how these can be used to manage the risk of the portfolio

METHOD OF TEACHING AND LEARNING:
In congruence with the teaching and learning strategy of the college, the following tools are used:
- In class interactive discussion using cases and spreadsheet applications with the aim of enhancing students' analytical and critical capabilities as well as their communication skills.
- Through a hands-on portfolio management project: students gain experience in financial writing and oral presentations thus advancing financial decisions in a group setting. Students will have to develop an investment strategy, screen and review prospective securities and update the status and performance of existing positions.
- Group discussion - students are divided into groups to finish case projects and short research activities that involve the use of web search or the use of financial data bases
- Educational Field trips to trading venues, dealing rooms etc
- Office hours: students are encouraged to make full use of the office hours of their instructor.
- Use of blackboard.