ECB3121 · Economics of international trade and finance

Overview

This unit explores how countries interact through trade, investment, and financial markets. You will engage with advanced trade theories — including the Ricardian model and the Heckscher-Ohlin model — to understand global production and distribution patterns. The unit also examines practical issues such as migration, foreign direct investment, tariffs, offshoring, and exchange rate systems. By analysing national and international accounts and global capital flows, you will gain insights into the economic forces shaping business and policy in an interconnected world.

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

Learning outcomes

1. apply advanced international trade models to analyse patterns of trade and the distributional effects of global economic integration
2. evaluate the economic and social implications of cross-border activities, such as migration, foreign direct investment, and offshoring, using both theoretical and empirical approaches
3. interpret and analyse international financial data, including foreign exchange markets and national/international accounts, to inform business and policy decisions
4. critically assess the impact of trade and financial policies — such as tariffs and exchange rate regimes — on efficiency, equity, and sustainability in a global context.

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.