Learning outcomes

The aim of the course is to give students an understanding of how and why financial strategies and policies are determined in international companies, and what is behind managers' decisions on corporate finance.

After the course the student will be able to orally as well as in writing discuss the topic by covering the following matters:

- explain what is different about international financial management compared to domestic financial management

- explain how to measure foreign exchange exposure and to manage it to maximize the profitability, net cash flow and market value of the firm.

- analyse how a firm decides to invest capital to invest abroad, measures the political risk in the prospective host country and analyses a project through capital budgeting.

- understand how the value of a company is affected by managements choice of capital structure and dividend policy.

- obtain a critical awareness of the relation between traditional financial theories, behavioural theories and practise

- understand that international financial management requires an understanding of cultural, historical and institutional differences with a potential effect on corporate governance

- demonstrate strong critical thinking and problem solving skills within an ethical framework

- employ discipline knowledge and skills orally and in written form in a professional manner in service to the community

- understand that international financial management requires an understanding of cultural, historical and institutional differences with a potential effect on corporate governance

Instruction

The language is English. The course will comprise lectures, literature seminars with article discussions, prepared by small groups of students, and term paper seminars based on reports from these groups. Participation in seminars is compulsory.

Assessment

Grades will be given in accordance with the Swedish grading system and, for international students, the ECTS grading system. The following grades will be used: VG (passed with distinction), which corresponds to A or B in the ECTS grading system, G (passed), which corresponds to C, D or E, and U (failed) which corresponds to the ECTS grade F.

The students will get one single grade, equivalent to 7.5 ECTS credits. Examination includes a written test, preparing and defending papers, active participation in seminar presentations and discussions. For the final grade all the assessed assignments are taken into account.

In addition, any remaining assignments or supplements must be completed and handed in at least within two weeks after the end of the course otherwise the course (all assignments included) has to be redone the following semester, provided there is space in the course.

Attention Swedish students: Only completed courses can be recognised in your degree