Professional Certificate in Advanced Complex Financial Instruments in International Financial Services
| Course Provider |  |
| Dates Duratation | 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 27, 29 November, 7 December 2010 1 pm – 5 pm |
| Venue | IoB, IFSC, Dublin 1 |
| Course Fees | Full Fee: €3100 Network Members Fee: €1860 |
| Accrediation | Level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications subject to UCD ratification |
| CPD Hours | TBC |
Programme Introduction
Financial innovation has been a significant driver in the growth of financial markets. Within this trend, derivative products have become increasingly more complex. The risk and return dynamics associated with the use of complex financial instruments requires a greater understanding than traditional exposures.
This programme is designed to give candidates, who have a foundation in complex financial instruments, a deeper understanding of their application, valuation drivers and risk reward. The programme will also update candidates on the changing shape of the regulatory environment which is likely to heavily impact the use of complex financial instruments in the future.
Programme Objectives
On completion of this programme candidates will be able to:
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Explain the risk and return dynamics of a range of complex financial instruments;
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Recognise and design strategies which maximise the benefits of complex financial instruments;
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Gain an understanding of the key determinants of fair values of future and option contracts and other derivative products;
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Understand how financial instruments can be combined into portfolios for the purpose of hedging, portfolio insurance and arbitrage;
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Design and evaluate strategies for managing the interest rate, exchange rate and commodity risk exposures of companies;
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Appraise the role of regulation and the rating agencies on the application of financial instruments; and
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Understand the role that complex financial instruments played in the recent market turmoil and what lessons can be learnt for the future.
Who should undertake the Professional Certificate in Advanced Complex Financial Instruments in International Financial Services?
This programme is designed for professionals who are familiar with derivatives and complex instruments, and who want in-depth knowledge to be able to apply their skills to portfolio and company usage.
Such roles should include, but are not limited to:
Programme Structure
Lectures will be facilitated by Kevin McConnell, Head of Research at Bloxham Stockbrokers; a professional expert in the field of complex financial instruments. Lectures will be practically-based, focusing on case study analysis and will also include a 4 hour workshop.
This workshop is designed to provide a practical, onscreen and interactive demonstration of complex financial instruments positions which will facilitate actual application of skills and knowledge acquired in lectures.
Programme Delivery
This one-module programme will commence in November 2010. Lectures will take place in the in the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC), Dublin.
Learning Supports
When your registration has been processed, you will have access to the following learning supports:
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Access to the online Student Centre (using your password which will be sent to you following registration), including:
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Individual lecture and examination schedule
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Lecture notes and handouts
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Sample exam paper
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Secure access to your examination results
What are the Entry Requirements?
This programme is primarily aimed at individuals who work in the International Financial Services sector, are engaged in the use of derivative products and are already familiar with complex financial instruments. While the programme is particularly relevant for graduates of the Professional Certificate in Complex Financial Instruments in International Financial Services, entry is not limited to graduates of that programme.
Programme Leader - Kevin McConnell
Kevin, a Chartered Financial Analyst, is Head of Research at Bloxham Stockbrokers since 2001. He is a member of the CFA Institute in Ireland and is a Registered Stockbroker with the Irish Stock Exchange. Kevin specialises in covering the Banking sector and overall investment strategy for Bloxham, advising institutional investors and the in-house funds on investment decision making. Over the past 10 years, Kevin has been heavily involved in a corporate advisory role to Irish public listed companies, specialising in identifying strategies for maximising shareholder value. He was recently voted "Best Equity Strategist in 2009" in the annual Institutional Stockbroking Survey conducted by Finance magazine and his work is widely covered in the domestic and international media.
Syllabus Summary (This is a summary of the syllabus and not a full statement of content)
- Options
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Futures/Forwards
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SWAPS
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Credit Derivatives
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Valuation of Complex Financial Instruments
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Synthetic Market Positions using Derivatives
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Model Building of Complex Instruments Valuation
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Risk management & Accounting for Derivatives
To Register
The closing date for registrations is Friday, 10th September 2010. To register, please click BOOK THIS COURSE and complete all sections of the Application Form.

The Insitute of Bankers School of Professional Finance is a recognised school of University College Dublin. affiliated with UCD College of Business and Law.