Introduction

The Introduction to Financial Markets course at ISDI equips participants with a comprehensive understanding of financial markets, including key instruments, participants, and regulatory frameworks. Participants will gain insights into the functioning of financial markets, the role of different institutions, and the impact of economic forces on market behavior. By the end of the course, students will be able to analyze market trends and make informed investment decisions, preparing them for entry-level roles in the finance sector.

Objectives and Expectations

The course is designed to provide:

• A robust foundation in financial analysis for students who have completed FSc or equivalent
• Knowledge of financial statements, basic investment principles, and financial modeling tools
• Insights into stock, bond, and derivatives markets
• Familiarity with regulatory frameworks and the importance of compliance for market stability
• Understanding of market participants and their roles
• Skills to evaluate macroeconomic impacts, including interest rates, inflation, and monetary policies
• Practical ability to analyze financial data using tools like R for technical and fundamental analysis

Entry-level of Trainees

• This course is suitable for students:
• Who have recently completed FSc or equivalent
• Interested in pursuing careers as Financial Analysts, investment professionals, or related finance roles
• With basic computer literacy and interest in finance and economics

Learning Outcomes of the Course

Knowledge Proficiency Details

• Understand the structure and function of various financial markets: stocks, bonds, and derivatives
• Recognize different financial instruments and their roles
• Gain insights into regulatory frameworks including SECP and international regulators
• Identify and explain the roles of market participants such as investors, brokers, dealers, and market makers
• Analyze macroeconomic factors influencing markets and investment strategies

Skills Proficiency Details

• Perform hands-on financial data analysis using R programming
• Apply technical analysis, fundamental analysis, and statistical methods to real-world case studies
• Make informed investment decisions using portfolio diversification and risk management strategies
• Evaluate market trends, assess risk, and optimize investment performance

Companies Offering Jobs in the Respective Trade

• Habib Bank Limited (HBL)
• United Bank Limited (UBL)
• Meezan Bank
• MCB Bank
• Bank Alfalah
• National Bank of Pakistan (NBP)
• Faysal Bank
• Allied Bank Limited (ABL)
• Nestlé Pakistan
• Lucky Cement
• Pakistan State Oil (PSO)

Job Opportunities

Graduates can pursue careers as:

• Financial Analyst
• Investment Banker
• Portfolio Manager
• Risk Manager
• Market Research Analyst
• Equity Research Analyst
• Trading Specialist
• Financial Consultant

Course Execution Plan

• Total Duration: 4 Months (16 Weeks)
• Class Hours: 4 Hours per Day
• Theory: 40% | Practical: 60%
• Weekly Hours: 20 Hours
• Total Contact Hours: 320 Hours