Code
MGYE FIN 5773
Level
M2
Field
Finance
Language
Anglais/English
ECTS Credits
1
Class hours
21
Total student load
20
Program Manager(s)
Department
- Management, Marketing et Stratégie
Educational team
Introduction to the module
This lecture is an introduction to finance, business and macroeconomics in international environments.
It addresses topics such as currency, economic growth, international commerce, exchange rates, inflation, labor, interest rates and financial markets and, more importantly, the relationships between the above mentioned concepts.
This course aims at (i) convincing students of the importance of mastering financial and related economics in international environments and (ii) laying the ground for that expertise by addressing basic yet fundamental concepts.
At the end of this lecture, students will be able to:
Understand the importance of finance in conducting a business
Understand the importance of currency management and its relationship with hedging in international markets
Understand the relation between finance and strategy
Understand competitive advantages in international environments
Understand the benefits of global capital markets and associated risks
Understand the role of innovation vis-à-vis economic growth and its positioning in our economies
Learning objectives/Intended learning outcomes
- 2.1 - Develop a critical awareness of highly specialised knowledge, some of which is at the forefront of knowledge, with a view to formulating innovative contributions to complex issues, in line with the strategic plan of organisations and with scientific
- 2.3 - Conduct a reflective and detached analysis that takes into account the challenges, issues and complexity of a request or situation in order to propose appropriate and/or innovative solutions in line with regulatory developments.
Content : structure and schedule
Currency and forex markets
• Define competitive advantage
• Growth and development
• Debt and public deficits
• Business valuation
• Economical parameters : inflation, exchange rates, bonds and interest rates, employment…
• The current world of international finance
Sustainable Development Goals
Decent Work and Economic Growth Reduced Inequalities
Number of SDG's addressed among the 17
2
Learning delivery
synchrone
Pedagogical methods
The pedagogical approach for this course is based on a combination of formal lectures and applied, collaborative group work. The goal is to provide both the theoretical foundation and the practical application necessary to master this subject.
• Lectures: The 24 hours of in-class time will be dedicated to structured lectures. These sessions are designed to:
Present and explain the core theoretical concepts and analytical frameworks.
Illustrate these concepts with contemporary, real-world examples (e.g., analyzing current international finance hot topics (tariffs)).
Stimulate critical thinking and class discussion through pointed questions and debates. Your active participation is therefore expected and encouraged during these lectures.
• Case Study Method: The core applied learning component is a comprehensive group case study. This method allows students to:
Move from theory to practice by confronting a complex, real-world business and geopolitical challenge.
Develop teamwork, research, and analytical skills.
Produce a concrete deliverable (a written report) that demonstrates their ability to synthesize information and formulate strategic recommendations.
This blended approach ensures that students not only acquire knowledge but also develop the essential skills to apply it effectively in their future careers.
Evaluation and grading system and catch up exams
Your final grade will be based on a combination of three elements, reflecting both individual and group performance, as well as your ongoing engagement with the course material.
• 1. Group Case Study Dossier (50% of the final grade)
Format: A written report (15-21 pages, excluding appendices and graphs).
Objective: To assess your ability to work in a team, conduct rigorous research, apply the course's geopolitical and macroeconomic frameworks to a specific case, and formulate coherent, well-justified strategic analysis.
Grading Criteria: Depth of analysis, relevance and application of course concepts, quality of research, clarity of writing, and strength of conclusions. A peer evaluation mechanism may be used to adjust individual grades within the group if necessary.
• 2. Final In-Class Exam (30% of the final grade)
Format: A 2-hour written exam, closed book, to be held during the final exam period.
Objective: To evaluate your individual understanding of the key concepts, theories, and mechanisms covered throughout the entire course. The exam may include essay questions, short answers, and the analysis of a brief unseen document (e.g., a news excerpt, a graph, or a short quote).
Grading Criteria: Accuracy of knowledge, clarity of explanation, critical thinking, and ability to synthesize different elements of the course.
• 3. Class Participation (20% of the final grade)
Format: Active and constructive contribution to in-class discussions.
Objective: To encourage continuous engagement with the material and to create a dynamic learning environment. Quality is vastly more important than quantity.
Grading Criteria: The relevance of your comments, your ability to build on the ideas of others, and overall professionalism in discourse.
Module Policies
To guarantee a focused, engaged, and professional learning environment that is conducive to deep understanding and critical discussion, the following classroom policies are strictly enforced:
• Note-Taking Policy: All note-taking is required to be done by hand (using a notebook and pen/pencil). The use of laptops, tablets, or any other electronic devices for typing notes is prohibited during class.
Pedagogical Rationale: Academic studies have consistently shown that handwritten notes promote active listening, better synthesis of information, and superior conceptual understanding and retention compared to passive transcribing on a computer.
• Electronic Device Policy: The use of mobile phones, smartphones, smartwatches, or any other communication devices is strictly forbidden for the entire duration of the class. All devices must be silenced and stored out of sight (in a bag, not on the desk).
Enforcement: Any student seen using a phone or other prohibited device during class will have their Class Participation grade immediately and irrevocably reduced to 0 (zero) for the entire course.
• Punctuality Policy: Punctuality is a fundamental aspect of professional conduct. Students are expected to be in the classroom and ready to start at the scheduled time.
Enforcement: Students arriving after the lecture has begun will be considered late. Two instances of tardiness will result in the student's Class Participation grade being reduced to 0 (zero). Persistent lateness will be seen as a sign of disrespect for the instructor and fellow students and will be treated accordingly.
These policies are designed to maximize the learning experience for every participant and to prepare you for the professional standards expected in the business world. Your adherence to these rules is a component of your professional evaluation in this course.
Textbook Required and Suggested Readings
Vernimmen, Dalloz, 2012
Keywords
Financial markets, Exchange rates, Capital markets