Learning objectives
In addition to discussing the specific characteristics and societal roles of banks, the course offers an in-depth overview of the FinTech industry, including its companies that are driving significant innovation in financial services. The course also covers the main strategies adopted by established institutions in response to new market conditions, as well as the primary challenges in FinTech security and regulation.
Upon completion of the course, students will:
- Gain the knowledge necessary to understand the features and evolution of the banking system in the Fintech era.
- Develop the ability to apply this knowledge to assess the impact of environmental forces on the strategies and performance of banks and FinTech companies.
- Evaluate the roles of banks and FinTech companies in modern society, considering social and ethical perspectives.
- Acquire proficiency in using appropriate technical language.
- Enhance learning skills through problem-solving methods.
Prerequisites
The course adheres to the standard prerequisites set by the department.
Course unit content
This course comprises two main sections. The first module focuses on modern commercial bank management, reasons for regulation, economics of banking, and risk management, including recent developments in banking and finance.
The second module specifically explores 'Fintech companies', which are challenging traditional banking institutions and shaping digital banking standards through technological innovations. This section examines how digitalization is transforming market conditions in the financial sector, providing insights into tools, strategies, execution methods, and consequences of the 'Fintech revolution'.
Full programme
The first section covers financial services industry understanding, including financial regulation, organizational structure, distribution channels, balance sheets, and risk management.
The second section delves into the Fintech ecosystem, digital currencies, blockchain technology, impact on retail banking, robo-advisors, PSD2 and open banking, Insurtech innovations, and regulatory challenges.
Bibliography
• First part: Ruozi R., Economia della banca, Egea, 2020
• Second part: Course lecture notes, provided by the professor, and other relevant materials (articles, cases, reports, news articles) available on the
Elly platform.
Teaching methods
Face-to-face interactive lessons including case studies, seminars, and guest speakers. The course content will be detailed during lessons.
Assessment methods and criteria
The assessment includes a one-hour written examination with:
- 10 multiple-choice questions (2 marks each),
- 2 open-ended theory questions (6 points each).
Honors (lode) will be awarded to students who achieve the maximum score on each question. Grades will be published on Esse3 within 8 days of the exam.
Multiple-choice questions will assess acquired knowledge and the ability to apply it. The ability to communicate using appropriate technical language, independent judgment, and learning capacity will be evaluated through the analysis of responses to the open-ended questions.
Other information
Alternatively to the final exam, intermediate written tests may be scheduled during the course. These tests will be agreed upon and announced at the beginning of the course. The structure of these partial tests may differ from that of the official exam. Oral supplementation of the grade is strictly excluded in all cases.
Note: Lecture slides provided on the Elly portal are supplementary materials and should not replace the course textbook.
Devices such as smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, etc. will be strictly forbidden during the exam.
