Advanced Market Analysis & Case Studies

This capstone unit synthesizes real-world case studies, regulatory frameworks, and data tools to deepen students’ understanding of investment banking functions, market dynamics, and risk management. Students will use primary data sources and analytical platforms to evaluate financing choices, portfolio/index construction, and the causes and consequences of major market failures.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze at least three historical market failures or crises (e.g., Flash Crash, Long-Term Capital Management, London Whale) to identify root causes, warning signals, and subsequent regulatory or industry responses.
• Evaluate debt-versus-equity financing options for a given firm by comparing cost of capital, credit considerations (including ratings agency inputs), and market implications to recommend an optimal capital structure.
• Apply financial data sources and analytical platforms (e.g., MarketSmith, Trefis, Morningstar, Moody’s, BLS, Department of Commerce, Federal Reserve releases) to assess bond and equity market conditions and produce data-supported investment recommendations.
• Demonstrate the ability to construct and defend portfolio or index weighting choices and an IPO allocation strategy, using quantitative analysis and lessons learned from mergers, bankruptcies, and allocation case studies.