Financial Markets and Learning Expectations

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Questions and Answers

What does the parable illustrate about stewardship?

  • Wealth should be distributed equally.
  • It is better to hide resources than to risk losing them.
  • Fear is a valid reason for inactivity.
  • Being unproductive leads to consequences. (correct)

What is the primary reason the US dollar is considered attractive as a central currency?

  • The US dollar has the highest exchange rate among currencies.
  • The US dollar is only used for international trade.
  • The US dollar is the only currency accepted globally.
  • It is perceived stability and security provided by the US. (correct)

Which of the following assets is NOT typically held in a central bank's foreign exchange reserves?

  • Special Drawing Rights (SDRs)
  • Sovereign bonds
  • Cryptocurrency (correct)
  • Gold

What role do Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) serve for central banks?

<p>They are international reserve assets that can be exchanged for currencies. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What factor can influence the exact composition of a central bank's foreign exchange reserves?

<p>The country's monetary policy objectives. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary reason the US dollar is considered a stable currency?

<p>Relatively low rate of inflation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which currency is most widely held in a central bank's foreign exchange reserves?

<p>US Dollar (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is the US dollar preferred for international transactions?

<p>The US economy is the largest in the world (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a major characteristic of gold as an asset in foreign exchange reserves?

<p>It is perceived as a long-term safe haven asset. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor significantly contributes to the US dollar's dominance as a reserve currency?

<p>Strong government backing of the US dollar (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of bonds are central banks likely to hold in their foreign exchange reserves?

<p>Sovereign bonds from stable, developed countries. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of the US financial market increases its attractiveness to international investors?

<p>The size and development of markets like the NYSE (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect contributes to the military power of the United States?

<p>The global influence derived from its military presence. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one reason many countries hold US dollars as a reserve currency?

<p>The stability of the US dollar enhances financial security (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the size of the US economy influence the US dollar's role in the global economy?

<p>It provides significant weight to the dollar in global transactions (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which market plays a key role in enhancing the importance of the US dollar?

<p>The New York Stock Exchange (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a reason for the widespread use of the US dollar?

<p>Its association with emerging markets (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary act governing investment business conduct in the UK?

<p>The Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which authority is responsible for enforcing financial regulations in the UK?

<p>Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which country has the highest dollar currency reserves?

<p>China (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which institution governs both investment and securities activities in Malaysia?

<p>Securities Commission (SC) (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which currency has the highest value based on the list provided?

<p>Kuwaiti Dinar (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the Bursa SE primarily govern in Malaysia?

<p>Lead, ace, and main markets (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which country ranks first in highest government debt?

<p>Japan (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which country has the second highest interest rates?

<p>Venezuela (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not a participant in the financial ecosystem?

<p>Social Media Platforms (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which country is not listed among the top 10 economies by GDP?

<p>Brazil (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following countries ranks the lowest in currency reserves?

<p>Singapore (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these agencies assesses creditworthiness?

<p>Moody's (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the latest available value of government debt for Greece?

<p>193.3 billion (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the primary role of agents in a financial ecosystem?

<p>To trade goods and services. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant way agents manage and transfer risk in a financial ecosystem?

<p>By offering insurance policies. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do individuals typically access capital according to the financial ecosystem?

<p>By taking out loans. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic of financial products is associated with the ability to buy and sell quickly?

<p>Liquidity (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What defines the term of maturity in the context of financial products?

<p>The specific date when a bond must be repaid. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which financial instrument generally has a lower risk profile?

<p>Bonds with security (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of financial products relates to their capacity to be divided into smaller parts?

<p>Divisibility (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT considered a category of financial instruments?

<p>Real estate (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Stewardship

The responsible management of resources entrusted to someone, typically by a superior.

Five bags of gold

A portion of wealth entrusted to a servant by a master.

Two bags of gold

Another portion of wealth entrusted to a servant by the master.

One bag of gold

The least amount of wealth entrusted; a smaller portion.

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Master's return

The point when the master comes back to check on what his servants did with the wealth.

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Servant's accountability

The servants' duty to report on the returns they gained through investing their master's money.

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Faithful servant

A servant who manages the entrusted wealth responsibly, thus earning appreciation from the master.

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Lazy servant

A servant who mishandles the entrusted wealth by hiding it instead of investing.

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US dollar's role

The US dollar is a central currency for international transactions, frequently used worldwide.

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Global stability

The US dollar's consistency and low inflation make it reliable.

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Economic dominance

The US's large economy supports the dollar's significance.

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Reserve currency

Many countries hold US dollars as a safe investment.

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Financial market size

The US's large and developed financial markets draw investment.

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Widespread use

The US dollar is widely accepted in global trade.

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International transactions

Deals and exchanges involving multiple countries.

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Reserve currency benefits

Countries holding dollars as reserves get a strong international currency.

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Financial Ecosystem

A network of interconnected entities like individuals, businesses, and institutions that engage in financial activities.

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Trading Goods & Services

Agents in a financial ecosystem interact to buy and sell assets like stocks, bonds, commodities, and currencies.

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Risk Management

Agents in a financial ecosystem collaborate to manage and transfer financial risk, like insurance companies providing policies.

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Accessing Capital

Agents in a financial ecosystem interact to obtain funds, like businesses issuing bonds or individuals taking out loans.

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Transferring and Storing Value

Agents in a financial ecosystem interact to transfer value and ensure its safekeeping, like depositing money in banks.

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Liquidity

The ability to quickly buy or sell a financial product without significantly affecting its price.

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Expected Return

The potential profit or income anticipated from a financial product.

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Term of Maturity

The duration of a financial product, especially bonds, until its repayment or expiration.

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Securities Exchanges

Organized markets where securities like stocks and bonds are bought and sold.

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Role of Securities Exchanges

Facilitate capital allocation, price discovery, and provide liquidity for financial assets.

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Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)

The UK's independent regulatory body responsible for enforcing financial market rules.

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Securities Commission (SC)

Malaysian regulatory body overseeing the securities and capital markets.

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Currency Value

The worth of a currency compared to other currencies. A higher value means a currency can buy more goods and services in another country.

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Highest Dollar Reserves

The countries holding the largest amount of US dollar reserves. These reserves are used for international transactions and to stabilize currencies.

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Highest Interest Rates

Countries with the highest interest rates on loans. These rates can encourage borrowing and spending, but also lead to inflation.

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GDP (Gross Domestic Product)

The total value of goods and services produced in a country during a specific time period. It's a measure of a country's economic output.

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Government Debt

The amount of money a government owes to its lenders. High debt can put pressure on a country's finances.

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Commercial Banks

Financial institutions that provide loans, accept deposits, and offer other financial services to individuals and businesses.

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Central Banks

Government-backed institutions that manage a country's money supply, set interest rates, and ensure financial stability.

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Investment Banks

Financial institutions that specialize in helping companies raise capital, issue securities, and provide financial advice.

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Asset Managers

Professionals who manage investments for individuals and institutions, aiming to grow their assets over time.

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What is the role of the US Federal Reserve?

The US Federal Reserve is the central bank of the United States, responsible for managing the country's monetary policy. It plays a crucial role in controlling inflation, setting interest rates, and ensuring the stability of the financial system. Its actions impact the overall economy, including the value of the US dollar.

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What is the significance of the US dollar?

The US dollar is a leading global currency, meaning many countries around the world use it for international transactions and trade. Due to its stability and the strength of the US economy, the dollar is widely accepted and trusted as a central currency.

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What are foreign exchange reserves?

Foreign exchange reserves are assets held by a country's central bank, primarily in the form of foreign currencies. These reserves are used to stabilize the country's exchange rate, manage external debt, and intervene in foreign exchange markets.

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What are Special Drawing Rights (SDRs)?

SDRs are an international reserve asset created by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). They are used to supplement a country's foreign exchange reserves and can be exchanged for other currencies. They are particularly important for countries that experience financial difficulties.

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Why do central banks hold gold?

Gold is seen as a safe haven asset, meaning it tends to hold its value even during economic turmoil. It's a traditional store of value and many central banks still hold it as a component of their foreign exchange reserves.

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What are sovereign bonds?

Sovereign bonds are government bonds issued by a stable country. These bonds offer relatively safe returns and can be held by central banks as part of their foreign exchange reserves. They are particularly valuable during times of economic stability.

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What factors influence the composition of a central bank's foreign exchange reserves?

The composition of a central bank's reserves depends on a variety of factors, including the country's monetary policy goals, its economic situation, and its political stability. Each country strategically manages its reserves based on its own unique circumstances.

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What is the relationship between military power and the US dollar?

The United States possesses a strong military, which contributes to its global influence and the perceived stability of the US dollar. Because of this stability, the US dollar is more attractive to other countries as a central currency. This is a significant factor in the US dollar's prominence in global financial markets.

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Study Notes

Financial Markets

  • Financial products (e.g., shares, bonds, forex) generate more money.
  • Financial markets involve buyers and sellers exchanging goods and services.

Cone of Experience

  • People generally remember 10%-30% of what they read or hear.
  • 30% remember when they view images or watch videos.
  • 50% remember when they watch a demonstration.
  • 70% remember when they participate in a workshop.
  • 90% remember when they simulate or do a real experience.

Class Expectations

  • Breaks every 1:15 minutes
  • Keep mobile phones on silent mode
  • Ask questions with permission
  • Attendance taken at the end of session
  • Don't interrupt others

Session Learning Outcomes

  • Understand contemporary operations of financial markets and intermediation.
  • Identify and explain characteristics of financial instruments and value them.
  • Understand the role of financial institutions and central banks in regulating financial markets and maintaining integrity.

Session 1 & 2 Finance Function: Learning Outcomes

  • Financial Economic System: Need for Intermediation
  • Finance Markets Holistic Approach
  • Module Guide and Assessment
  • Activity
  • Seminar: c# coding

Emergence of Money: History of Money

  • Non-monetary exchange (Barter): 9000-6000 BCE.
  • Every object had two uses: original purpose and as an item to sell or barter.
  • Standardized coinage: 1000 BCE-400 CE. Lasted more than five centuries.
  • Medieval coins and moneys of account: 400-1450. Also lasted over five centuries.
  • Banknotes: 15th-19th century. Centralized after 1694.
  • Bronze Age (Commodity money): 3000 BCE.

Economic System

  • First recorded customer complaint (complaint tablet to Ea-nasir): 1750 BCE.

Parable of the Bags of Gold: Matthew 25:14-30 (AD 80-90)

  • (Stewardship): The role of the servant is related to trust and responsibility.

Financial Concepts

  • Interest (scenario: How money is taken and earned by the banks)
  • Investment (indirect and direct financing)
  • To lenders: (Lenders give money to others for a return. Example: SSU -> Financial institution -> DSU)
  • Banks and Financial Institutions
  • Savings
  • Dividend
  • Earnings
  • Time Value of Money
  • Shares

Gold Reserves

  • Top gold reserves by country (U.S.A., Germany, Italy, France, Russia, etc.) in tonnes.

What is the central currency of the World? and Why?

  • US Dollar

Why Dollar?

  • Economic dominance (largest economy in the world).
  • Widespread use (accepted globally in international trade).
  • Global stability (stable currency with low inflation).
  • Financial market size (large and developed markets like the New York Stock Exchange).
  • Military power (significant global influence).

What does the reserve hold?

  • Foreign Exchange Reserves are a mix of different currencies (primarily USD) and assets held.
  • Gold, Sovereign bonds (from stable countries), and Special Drawing Rights (SDRs)

Highest Currencies in the World

  • List of currencies and their values.

Highest Dollar Currency Reserves

  • Top countries with highest dollar currency reserves (by country and rank).

Highest Interest Rates Countries

  • Countries with highest interest rates (by country and rank).

Biggest economies in 2021 by GDP

  • Top 10 countries ranked by GDP.

Highest Government Debt

  • Top 10 countries ranked by government debt.

Financial ecosystem participants

  • Financial ecosystems consist of various players that interact to create an interconnected network. Examples: Commercial bank, Central bank, Payment service providers, Insurance, investment banks, Asset Managers; Stock exchanges; Regulators

There are more participants

  • Hedge funds
  • Credit rating agencies
  • Financial advisors
  • FinTech companies
  • Microfinance institutions
  • Sovereign wealth funds

Financial Eco-System

  • Intermediaries (examples: savers, lenders and investors)
  • (indirect financing – SSU transfer money via intermediary to DSU)
  • (direct financing – SSU directly offer shares to raise capital from DSU)

Why do they interact?

  • Exchange goods and services
  • Manage risk
  • Access capital
  • Transfer and store value.

Some characteristics of Financial Products

  • Risk: (Share, OSC is high; PSC is lower; Security bonds are lower, Bonds without security are higher)
  • Liquidity: ability fast to buy and sell
  • Expected Return
  • Term of Maturity
  • Currency Denomination
  • Divisibility

Some characteristics of Financial products

  • Type of instrument: Equities (stocks), bonds, derivatives (options and futures), currencies, commodities.
  • Issuer: Corporations, governments.
  • Nature of claims: Debt (obligations) and equity (ownership).
  • Risk and return: Varying levels (low risk - bonds; high risk - equities).
  • Marketability: Liquid (easy to buy/sell) vs. illiquid.
  • Regulation: Varying levels.
  • Complexity: Varying levels.
  • Purpose: Raising capital, managing risk, speculating.

Regulation of Stock Exchanges

  • UK Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
  • Listed Securities
  • Listing Authority
  • Malaysian Security Commission (SC)
  • Bursa Malaysia (Bursa SE)

Financial Markets: Learning Outcomes

  • Understanding the financial ecosystem (including key terminologies)
  • Role of securities exchanges in the financial economic system.
  • Investment Analysis

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