Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit introduces students to the theory and practice of securities trading at exchanges and in dealer markets. In contrast to traditional models of finance that assume perfect markets, the unit examines how trading and the design of markets affect volatility, liquidity, trading costs, price efficiency and trading outcomes.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 3 core unit in the Financial Economics major sequence
  • Level 3 option in the Finance major sequence
  • Level 3 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) describe the structure of different markets and how securities are traded; (2) discuss the motivations for trading; (3) identify trading costs and seek ways to measure and minimise them under different market structures; (4) evaluate the links between market structure, trading efficiency and asset pricing and provide probable explanations for financial market anomalies and regularities; and (5) demonstrate the ability to apply the concepts and theory to practice.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) weekly assignments; (2) trading simulation assignments; and (3) examinations. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Yuanji Wen
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Any level 2 Finance unit
Contact hours
lectures/tutorials/seminars/workshops: up to 3 hours per week
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.