BFX3370 · Foundations and applications of financial technologies

Overview

In this comprehensive undergraduate unit, you will gain a foundational understanding of the dynamic synergy between finance and technology. Throughout this structured curriculum, you will explore the fundamental components of the financial system, delve into the evolution of fintech, and actively apply your knowledge through hands-on experiences related to blockchain, AI, and machine learning. These practical exercises and case studies will prepare you for future study or future career in the field of financial technology.

Offerings

The Handbook publishes no offerings for this unit.

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

Learning outcomes

1. gain a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental concepts and principles of financial technology (FinTech)
2. acquire familiarity with a diverse range of applications of FinTech across various sectors within the financial industry
3. develop the ability to critically evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of implementing FinTech solutions
4. attain a foundational understanding of blockchain technology, including its underlying principles and mechanisms
5. become proficient in navigating the Bitcoin blockchain, gaining insight into its structure and functionalities
6. understand the fundamental concepts of smart contracts and gain exposure to prominent blockchain platforms such as Ethereum, as well as other programmable blockchains
7. familiarise themselves with the latest developments in Decentralized Finance (DeFi), including decentralized exchanges (DEXes), lending protocols, derivatives, and tokenisation.
8. explore the diverse landscape of crypto assets, including their classifications, characteristics, and the unique attributes that distinguish them as an asset class.
9. engage in critical thinking and creativity by conceptualizing innovative and undiscovered applications of blockchain technology, pushing the boundaries of its potential impact across various industries.

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.