The Smart Investor

About

"The Smart Investor" is a summer course designed to provide students with practical investment techniques and a deep understanding of finance. The course is tailored for ambitious individuals who aspire to lead and make informed investment decisions, whether in stocks, bonds, or other assets. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, using the open-source software R for data analysis and portfolio management.

Course leader

Sjoke Merk

Target group

While there are no specific prerequisites, it is preferable for students to have completed a first- and second-year finance course. This background will help in understanding the advanced concepts covered in the course. No Prior Coding Experience Required: Students are not required to have any background in R or any other coding language. The course will cover the necessary tools and techniques for using R in investment analysis and portfolio management.

Course aim

Broad course objectives:
• Overview of Finance and Investments: Gain a broad understanding of the field of finance and investments
• Application of Financial Information: Apply basic financial information to make informed investment decisions.
Specific Learning Goals:
• Investment Concepts: Understand what constitutes an investment and distinguish between direct and indirect investments
• Investment Environment: Describe the investment environment and provide an overview of various investment securities and asset classes
• Portfolio Formation: Explain the importance of selectivity, timing, and diversification in forming an investment portfolio
• Investment Management Process: Explain the investment management process and define different investment objectives/goals for retail investors
• Covariance and Risk Measurement: Understand what covariance measures and identify the best statistical tools to determine investment risk.

Fee info