The course is designed to provide entering graduate students with a basic knowledge of mathematical and statistical techniques which will be applied throughout the remainder of the MSIM course curriculum. While doing this, key concepts in economics and finance, such as present value calculations and the associated mechanics of discounted cash flow analysis, in the context of risk and uncertainty, will be introduced. The methods of empirical investigation presented include basic regression analysis and hypothesis testing, involving Excel spreadsheets and related tools. Main practical applications will be in the context of capital budgeting and demand analysis. Cases will be used to illustrate the value of data analysis to support effective and successful decision making.
- Teacher: Patrick Coggi