Course manual 2023/2024

Course content

Many models used in finance end up in formulation of highly mathematical problems. Solving these equations exactly in closed form is impossible as the experience in other fields suggests. Therefore, we have to look for efficient numerical algorithms in solving complex problems such as option pricing, risk analysis, portfolio management, etc.
Computational finance, generally referring to the application of computational techniques to finance, has become an integral part of modeling, analysis, and decision-making in the financial industry. In this course an introduction will be given to the theory of derivative pricing. Several computational approaches such as Monte Carlo methods, lattice methods, and numerical PDE (Partial Differential Equation) techniques will be covered. The application of these algorithms on distributed computing architectures will be outlined.

Study materials

Other

  • Handouts and chapters of books (available in blackboard)

Objectives

  • Introduction into financial pricing and risk models and numerical methods for solving these

Teaching methods

    Lectures and practical training

    Learning activities

    Activity

    Number of hours

    Computerpracticum

    30

    Hoorcollege

    30

    Zelfstudie

    108

    Attendance

    This programme does not have requirements concerning attendance (Ter part B).

    Assessment

    Item and weight Details

    Final grade

    1 (20%)

    Assignment 1

    1 (20%)

    Assignment 2

    1 (20%)

    Assignment 3

    2 (40%)

    Exam

    Must be ≥ 5

    Fraud and plagiarism

    The 'Regulations governing fraud and plagiarism for UvA students' applies to this course. This will be monitored carefully. Upon suspicion of fraud or plagiarism the Examinations Board of the programme will be informed. For the 'Regulations governing fraud and plagiarism for UvA students' see: www.student.uva.nl

    Course structure

    Weeknummer Onderwerpen Studiestof
    1
    2
    3
    4
    5
    6
    7
    8

    Additional information

    Recommended prior knowledge: Basic programming skills and mathematics (calculus and probability theory).

    Contact information

    Coordinator

    • dr. Sven Karbach