BFM5014 · Current issues in international finance

Overview

Multinational companies (MNCs) conduct cross-border transactions, hold assets and liabilities in multiple currencies, invest and borrow across multiple currencies and jurisdictions, and often have complex corporate ownership and corporate governance around the world. As a result, the operations and management of MNCs are subject to various types of risks, such as exchange rate risk, credit risk, equity risk, interest rate risk, and geopolitical risk. Therefore, MNCs must apply various risk management methods to protect themselves against these risks arising from foreign exchange transaction exposures and economic exposures. There are significant structural changes in international finance and trade, including the imposition of new global tariff structures by the United States on the rest of the world in 2025. Since 2022, the world has been moving towards an era of a multipolar world, de-dollarisation, and fragmented financial markets. These developments have been facilitated by rapid innovations in financial technology (FinTech) and blockchain technology. Drawing on these current issues and geopolitical risks, this unit seeks to incorporate and present the operations and management of MNCs from a multipolar and geopolitical perspective. This unit will provide you with the latest practical and industry-relevant knowledge of international financial markets, including recent developments in financial technologies (FinTech) and current geopolitical changes affecting international trade and finance. This is a highly practical unit with a strong emphasis on the latest industry trends and best practices, incorporating insights from industry experts and entrepreneurs rather than focusing solely on theoretical concepts.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

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. evaluate global issues related to international finance, financial technology, trade and tariffs in global business environment and its impact on decision making
2. critically analyse financial risks and recommend strategic, data-driven solutions to mitigate potential challenges in international business
3. communicate findings based on supportive facts and figures to diverse range of stakeholders
4. appraise international finance issues and risk-mitigating strategy from global perspective.

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.