Learning objectives
The aim of the course is to introduce the functions of a financial system in channeling funds from surplus to deficit units. The first part of the course aims to answer the following questions: what is a financial system, who uses it, what does it do? The course then focuses on the international regulators and regulations on the financial system and the activities of financial intermediaries. Financial institutions come in many different forms and offer a variety of services: the course emphasizes the distinctive characteristics of financial intermediaries of different European countries (banks and non-banking financial institutions).
The second part of the course focuses on the role of microfinance in economic and social development. In developing countries the poor often do not access the mainstream financial system. Lack of funds due to financial exclusion prevents them from taking up opportunities offered by economic activities. Microfinance institutions provide financial services that allow people to save and invest in small businesses. Problems of sustainability and impact of microfinance institutions will be discussed, together with the opportunities and threats coming from the growth of the institutions and the internationalization process.