Introduction to Global Financial Systems (online)



Overview

This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the global financial system, equipping participants with the skills to navigate and analyse the key institutions, capital markets and mechanics that shape international finance. Participants will explore the structure and functions of global financial systems, focusing on the roles of central banks, commercial banks, financial markets and regulators. The curriculum also covers the impact of monetary and fiscal policy on global markets, trends in globalisation and strategies for managing financial risk. Real-world case studies of historical financial crises also provide practical insights into their causes and effects, enhancing and complementing participants’ analytical skills and additional perspectives. 

Designed for financial professionals, new entrants to the field, and students aspiring to excel in international finance, this course equips participants with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in a dynamic financial environment.  

Dates, Times and Delivery 

The Introduction to Global Financial Systems (online) course runs over two weeks, from 24 February - 7 March 2025, with online sessions delivered via Microsoft Teams.

Sessions will be held on Mondays and Fridays from 19:00-20:30 (UK time) on:

  • Monday, 24 February

  • Friday, 28 February

  • Monday, 3 March

  • Friday, 7 March

A world clock, and time zone converter can be found here: https://bit.ly/3bSPu6D 

This is a ‘virtual classroom’ course. 

To replicate the experience of a classroom, the sessions are ‘live’ and are not recorded. 

No in-person attendance at Oxford is required and you do not need to purchase any software.

Accessing Your Online Course 

Details about accessing the private MS Teams course site will be emailed to you during the week prior to the course commencing.  

Please get in touch if you have not received this information within three working days of the course start date. 

Programme details

Session 1: Overview of Global Financial Systems  

  • Understanding the structure and function of global financial systems 

  • Key institutions: central banks, commercial banks and financial markets 

  • Role of financial intermediaries in the economy 

  • Overview of financial instruments: stocks, bonds, derivatives and currencies 

Session 2: Monetary Policy and Financial Stability 

  • Objectives and tools of monetary policy 

  • Central banking systems and their influence on the economy 

  • Mechanisms of interest rate setting and money supply control 

  • Case studies on monetary policy interventions and financial stability

Session 3: Globalisation and International Financial Markets  

  • Trends in globalisation and their effects on financial systems 

  • Structure and functioning of international financial markets 

  • Role of international institutions: International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank and the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) 

  • Exchange rates, foreign exchange markets and currency risk management

Session 4: Financial Crises and Risk Management  

  • Historical overview of major financial crises and their causes 

  • Identification and management of financial risks: credit, market and operational risks 

  • Regulatory frameworks and their role in preventing financial crises 

  • Strategies for risk mitigation and maintaining financial stability 

Certification

In order to be eligible for a certificate of attendance, you will need to attend the whole course. Participants who meet this criterion will be emailed after the end of the course with a link, and instructions on how to access their University of Oxford digital certificate.

The certificate will show your name, the course title and the dates of the course you attended. You will be able to download your certificate, as well as share it on social media if you choose to do so.

Fees

Description Costs
Course Fee £465.00

Payment

Fees include electronic copies of course materials.

All courses are VAT exempt.

Register immediately online 

Click the 'Book now' button on this webpage. Payment by credit or debit card is required.

Tutor

Konrad Kleinfeld

Tutor

Konrad is a qualified banker, former derivatives trader and seasoned investment professional with over 20 years of industry experience in banking, capital markets and asset management. With his extensive background, he offers a unique perspective on both investment strategies and the needs of capital-seeking businesses and corporations in his engaging lectures and seminars. Konrad is currently Head of EMEA Sales for Fixed Income ETFs at one of the world's leading asset management firms. 

Prior to his current role, Konrad spent five years at BlackRock where he covered pension funds and larger German (multinational) corporations. Prior to joining BlackRock, he was a Vice President at Nomura International plc in London and Frankfurt, where he enjoyed a successful seven-year tenure. Konrad began his career as a corporate bond and credit derivatives trader, honing his skills and building a strong foundations in the financial industry. 

In addition to his professional achievements, Konrad is a dedicated part-time lecturer at two prestigious German business schools, where he teaches various aspects of finance and economics to both masters and undergraduate students. In addition, he had the privilege of being a summer school lecturer on finance and artificial intelligence (AI) at King's College London, University of London, from 2016 to 2018. Konrad also shares his expertise as a tutor at Oxford, focusing on topical issues in financial services and AI. 

Konrad's educational achievements include a BA in Banking, an Advanced Diploma in International Development from the University of Cambridge and an Executive MBA from Cass Business School, City, University of London. To further enhance his knowledge and expertise, he has obtained numerous financial certifications. His insights have been recognised and he has been quoted and interviewed by several prominent German TV and print media, including ARD, Tagesschau, n-tv, FAZ, DAF, Sueddeutsche and Handelsblatt. 

Application

If you would like to discuss your application or any part of the application process before applying, please click the 'Ask a question' button at the top of this page.

IT requirements

This course is delivered online using Microsoft Teams. You will be required to follow and implement the instructions we send you to fully access Microsoft Teams on the University of Oxford's secure IT network.

To participate you must be familiar with using a computer for purposes such as sending email and searching the Internet. You will also need regular access to the Internet and a computer meeting our recommended minimum computer specification.

It is advised to use headphones with working speakers and microphone.

Terms & conditions for applicants and students

Information on financial support