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Course Descriptions-5
Probability 46-921
The objective of this course is to introduce the basic ideas and methods of calculus-based probability theory and to provide a solid foundation for other MSCF courses based on probability theory. Topics include basic results on probability and conditional probability, random variables and their distribution, expected values, moment generating functions transformations of random variables and vectors, simulation, laws of large numbers and the central limit theorem. Reference text (not required): DeGroot, M., Probability and Statistics, 3rd edition, 2002. Prerequisite: None.
Quantitative Asset Management 45-908
This course covers quantitative techniques that are used in investment management. The essential elements of a quantitative investment management process include a model of risk and return, portfolio construction tools that find optimal trade-offs between risk and return, strategies for portfolio rebalancing and trading, and some attribution mechanism to measure performance. The course will place special emphasis on the algorithmic techniques for portfolio construction and trading.The first half of the course will deal with static models. These include conventional active management based on mean-variance optimization as well as modern techniques such as resampled efficiency, Bayesian approaches, robust, and scenario optimization. The second half of the course will be devoted to dynamic models. These include multi-period asset-liability management, optimal execution strategies, and dynamic portfolio choice. Representative Texts: Grinold and Kahn, Active Portfolio Management; Cornuejols and Tutuncu, Optimization Methods in Finance; Campbell and Viceira, Strategic Asset Allocation: Portfolio Choice for Long-Term Investors. Prerequisites: Intro to MSCF Finance 45-711, Stochastic Calculus II 46-945, Simulation Methods for Option Pricing 46-932, Financial Computing III 46-903.
Simulation Methods for Option Pricing 46-932
This course initially presents standard topics in simulation including random variable generation, variance reduction methods and statistical analysis of simulation output. The course then addresses the use of Monte Carlo simulation in solving applied problems on derivative pricing discussed in the current finance literature. The technical topics addressed include importance sampling, martingale control variables, stratification, and the estimation of the "Greeks." Application areas include the pricing of American options, pricing interest rate dependent claims, and credit risk. Prerequisite: Intro to Probability 46-921, Intro to Statistical Inference 46-923, Linear Models 46-926, Stochastic Calculus I 46-944, Stochastic Calculus II 46-945, Options 45-814.
Statistical Arbitrage 46-936
This course will provide students with the basic concepts and techniques for statistical-based trading. It will present some of the standard approaches to statistical arbitrage including market neutral strategies such a pairs trading, value-based or contrarian methods, momentum-based strategies, cointegration-based trading, and technical analysis. The course will address how to search for statistical arbitrage strategies based on intra-day patterns, longer-term patterns, and multi-equity relationships. The course material will be drawn from the finance research literature. The work for the course will involve implementation and evaluation of some of these approaches using historical equity data. The topics covered are particularly relevant for proprietary trading, such as in the context of hedge funds. Prerequisite: Introduction to Probability 46-921, Introduction to Statistical Inference 46-923, Linear Financial Models 46-926, Financial Time Series 46-929.
Statistical Inference 46-923
The objective of this course is to introduce the basic ideas and methods of statistical inference and the practice of statistics, especially estimation and basic regression analysis. The statistical package S-PLUS will be introduced. This package is used throughout the MSCF curriculum. Mathematical statistical theory will be supplemented by simulation and data analysis methods to illustrate the theory. This course will provide a solid foundation for subsequent MSCF courses in statistics. Reference text (not required): DeGroot, M., Probability and Statistics, 3rd edition, 2002. Prerequisite: Introduction to Probability 46-921.
Stochastic Calculus for Finance I 46-944
This course introduces martingales, Brownian motion, Ito integrals and Ito’s formula, in both the uni-variate and multi-variate case. This is done within the context of the Black-Scholes option pricing model and includes a detailed examination of this model. Prerequisite: Multi-Period Asset Pricing 46-941 and knowledge of calculus-based probability theory. Text: S. Shreve, Stochastic Calculus for Finance II: Continuous-Time Models, Springer-Verlag, 2004. Prerequisite: Introduction to Probability 46-921, Multi-Period Asset Pricing 46-941.
Stochastic Calculus for Finance II 46-945
This course treats the theory and implementation of interest-rate term structure models. The underlying methodology is change of measure. Both risk-neutral and forward measures are used. Models covered include Hull-White, Cox-Ingersoll-Ross, Heath-Jarrow-Morton, and Brace-Gatarek-Musiela. Texts: S. Shreve, Stochastic Calculus for Finance II: Continuous-Time Models, Springer-Verlag, 2004. C. Munk, Fixed Income Analysis: Securities, Pricing, and Risk Management, Lecture Notes, 2005. Prerequisite: Stochastic Calculus for Finance I 46-944.
Studies in Financial Engineering 45-816
This course is about using financial engineering and derivative securities to solve practical business problems. Students will work through business cases and give in-class simulated sales pitches to hypothetical clients. The cases highlight the design, valuation and hedging of structured products on stock prices, interest rates, FX, and exotic "underlyings" such as volatility, credit, and energy. Reference text: Hull, J., Option, Futures and Other Derivative Securities, 2nd edition, Prentice-Hall, 1993. Prerequisite: Capstone Course - Must be taken at the end of the program.
Topics in Quantitative Finance 46-955
This course is a collection of topics that vary from year to year. Typical topics include the application of heavy-tailed distributions and simulation methods to financial risk management, models for the spread between forward interest rates and interest rate futures, the Brace-Gatarek-Musiela model, and pricing and hedging volatility products. In fall 2009 there will also be guest lecturers presenting risk management case studies. Texts: Glasserman, P., Monte Carlo Methods in Financial Engineering; S. Shreve, Stochastic Calculus for Finance II, Continuous-Time Models. Prerequisites: Stochastic Calculus for Finance II 46-945, Simulation Methods for Option Pricing 46-932. Prerequisite: Intro to MSCF Finance 45-711, Co-requisite: Intro to Fixed Income 46-956, Co-requisite: Multi-Period Asset Pricing 46-941.
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