BFF5270 · Funds management

Overview

This unit focuses on funds management styles and philosophies; approaches to implementing investment strategies for funds design and decision making; practical allocation of assets across and within different markets (industries); market sector volatilities and risk management; and performance measurement. Current academic research and trends in the industry are also considered from local and global funds management perspectives. The topics include: • portfolio investment styles, philosophies, mandates and policies • capital market expectations • asset allocation and portfolio optimisation • management of fixed income portfolios • international diversification • alternative investments • quantitative portfolio factor models • portfolio monitoring and rebalancing • portfolio performance, attribution and evaluation.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. demonstrate knowledge of the global funds management industry, its management philosophies, strategies and styles
2. compare and contrast approaches to funds design and decision making in terms of fund allocation, portfolio optimisation and portfolio monitoring, along with current trends in the funds management industry
3. develop skills of summarising, critically analysing and assessing, ranking, reporting and, presenting the current performance of funds managers
4. develop the capability to work effectively in a group and demonstrate effective research and problem solving skills to produce quality investment portfolio analysis
5. demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the rudiments of fund management both in theory and in practice as detailed in the unit.

Workload

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities. You are expected to complete all pre-class activities prior to your scheduled class, and post-class activities should be completed after your scheduled class. Learning activities may include a combination of teacher directed, peer directed and online engagement activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.