There is now a remarkably strong consensus among academics and professional economists that central banks should adopt explicit inflation targets and that all key monetary policy decisions, especially those concerning interest rates, should be made with a view to ensuring that these targets are achieved. This book provides a comprehensive review of the experience of inflation targeting since its introduction in New Zealand in 1989 and looks in detail at what we can learn from the past twenty years and what challenges we may face in the future. Written by a distinguished team of academics and professional economists from central banks around the world, the book covers a wide range of issues including many that have arisen as a result of the recent financial crisis. It should be read by anyone concerned with better understanding inflation targeting and its past, present and future role within monetary policy.

This book presents the building blocks of Islamic economics as meso-science, offering an in-depth study of the Qur'anic worldview of the monotheistic unity of knowledge, which is the universal and unique message of Tawhid in the Qur'an. This primal ontological premise is formalised in an analytical approach that introduces and unpacks the philosophical concepts of ontology, epistemology, and phenomenology in relation to the Tawhidi methodological worldview. The analysis of Qur'anic logical consistency is then cast in a phenomenological perspective by applying the complete model of the unity of knowledge of the Qur'an in a specific study of the Tawhidi methodological approach to Islamic financial-economic theory. In doing so, it tackles the problems of meso-economics given its socio-scientific holism in world affairs. It hones in on the results of the symbiotic modulation of evolutionary learning processes in the world system of the unity of knowledge and its material embedding across knowledge, and knowledge-induced space and time dimensions. The author poses that Shari'ah is only partial in its scope, and excludes an analytical methodological worldview. Shari'ah is thus cast in the midst of a meso-socio-scientific absence of any appertaining methodology. The book is a landmark work in the conceptual and applied understanding of Tawhid as the methodological worldview of the monotheistic unity of knowledge in the meso-socio-scientific realm of 'everything', particularised to Islamic economics. Adopting an inter-disciplinary view integrating various fields, it challenges pervasive Western academic and institutional thinking in terms of economics. It will be of interest to students and researchers in Islamic economics, religious theory, Islamic philosophy, development studies, and finance.

This book summarizes recent Chinese discussions about Internet finance-a new financial business type resulting from an innovative thinking under the new normal-in the light of the actual situation of China in transformation, especially the thirst of the grass-roots economy including medium-small and micro-sized enterprises as well as residents for financial services. The Internet finance is of great significance for optimizing and upgrading the industrial structure, improving the demand structure and reshaping the economic growth mode in China. This book will interest scholars, journalists, and businesspeople.

This is a much needed volume on the German financial system providing both a descriptive survey of the present state of the system and a new analytical framework to explain its workings. This book is written by a team of scholars, predominantly from the Centre for Financial Studies in Frankfurt.

This book takes a fresh look at understanding how financial markets behave. Using recent ideas from the highly-topical science of complexity and complex systems, the book provides the basis for a unified theoretical description of how today's markets really work. Since financial markets are an excellent example of a complex system, the book also doubles as a science textbook.

This book provides a detailed examination of foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) after closer integration in the European Union. An important facet of European economic integration was the development of a free-trade area in Central and Eastern Europe, which improved market accessibility. However, to date these relations have been little explored theoretically.The book examines foreign investments in different transition countries from both a theoretical and an empirical perspective. It analyzes changes in the choice of location by foreign investors in nineteen CEE countries between 1992 and 2015, and shows that it is linked to the removal of intra-regional trade barriers. The findings suggest that regional integration increases the incentives for multinationals to invest in the participating countries, especially in those with larger markets and lower production costs.

This book on counting statistics presents a novel copula-based approach to counting dependent random events. It combines clustering, combinatorics-based algorithms and dependence structure in order to tackle and simplify complex problems, without disregarding the hierarchy of or interconnections between the relevant variables. These problems typically arise in real-world applications and computations involving big data in finance, insurance and banking, where experts are confronted with counting variables in monitoring random events. In this new approach, combinatorial distributions of random events are the core element. In order to deal with the high-dimensional features of the problem, the combinatorial techniques are used together with a clustering approach, where groups of variables sharing common characteristics and similarities are identified and the dependence structure within groups is taken into account. The original problems can then be modeled using new classes of copulas, referred to here as clusterized copulas, which are essentially based on preliminary groupings of variables depending on suitable characteristics and hierarchical aspects. The book includes examples and real-world data applications, with a special focus on financial applications, where the new algorithms' performance is compared to alternative approaches and further analyzed. Given its scope, the book will be of interest to master students, PhD students and researchers whose work involves or can benefit from the innovative methodologies put forward here. It will also stimulate the empirical use of new approaches among professionals and practitioners in finance, insurance and banking.

This volume contains selected papers that were presented at the International Conference COMPUTATIONAL FINANCE 1997 held at London Business School on December 15-17 1997. Formerly known as Neural Networks in the Capital Markets (NNCM), this series of meetings has emerged as a truly multi-disciplinary international conference and provided an international focus for innovative research on the application of a multiplicity of advanced decision technologies to many areas of financial engineering. It has drawn upon theoretical advances in financial economics and robust methodological developments in the statistical, econometric and computer sciences. To reflect its multi-disciplinary nature, the NNCM conference has adopted the new title COMPUTATIONAL FINANCE. The papers in this volume are organised in six parts. Market Dynamics and Risk, Trading and Arbitrage strategies, Volatility and Options, Term-Structure and Factor models, Corporate Distress Models and Advances on Methodology. This years' acceptance rate (38%) reflects both the increasing interest in the conference and the Programme Committee's efforts to improve the quality of the meeting year-on-year. I would like to thank the members of the programme committee for their efforts in refereeing the papers. I also would like to thank the members of the computational finance group at London Business School and particularly Neil Burgess, Peter Bolland, Yves Bentz, and Nevil Towers for organising the meeting.

What is econophysics? What makes an econophysicist? Why are financial economists reluctant to use results from econophysics? Can we overcome disputes concerning hypotheses used in financial economics and that make no sense for econophysicists? How can we create a profitable dialogue between financial economists and econophysicists? How do we develop a common theoretical framework allowing the creation of more efficient models for the financial industry? This book moves beyond the disciplinary frontiers in order to initiate the development of a common theoretical framework that makes sense for both traditionally trained financial economists and econophysicists. Unlike other publications dedicated to econophysics, this book is written by two financial economists and it situates econophysics in the evolution of financial economics. The major issues that concern the collaboration between the two fields are analyzed in detail. More specifically, this book explains the theoretical and methodological foundations of these two fields in an accessible vocabulary providing the first extensive analytic comparison between models and results from both fields. The book also identifies the major conceptual gate-keepers that complicate dialogue between the two communities while it provides elements to overcome them. By mixing conceptual, historical, theoretical and formal arguments our analysis bridges the current deaf dialogue between financial economists and econophysicists. This book details the recent results in econophysics that bring it closer to financial economics. So doing, it identifies what remains to be done for econophysicists to contribute significantly to financial economics. Beyond the clarification of the current situation, this book also proposes a generic model compatible with the two fields, defining minimal conditions for common models. Finally, this book provides a research agenda for a more fruitful collaboration between econophysicists and financial economists, creating new research opportunities. In this perspective, it lays the foundations for common theoretical framework and models.

This book is devoted to problems of stochastic control and stopping that are time inconsistent in the sense that they do not admit a Bellman optimality principle. These problems are cast in a game-theoretic framework, with the focus on subgame-perfect Nash equilibrium strategies. The general theory is illustrated with a number of finance applications.In dynamic choice problems, time inconsistency is the rule rather than the exception. Indeed, as Robert H. Strotz pointed out in his seminal 1955 paper, relaxing the widely used ad hoc assumption of exponential discounting gives rise to time inconsistency. Other famous examples of time inconsistency include mean-variance portfolio choice and prospect theory in a dynamic context. For such models, the very concept of optimality becomes problematic, as the decision maker's preferences change over time in a temporally inconsistent way. In this book, a time-inconsistent problem is viewed as a non-cooperative game between the agent's current and future selves, with the objective of finding intrapersonal equilibria in the game-theoretic sense. A range of finance applications are provided, including problems with non-exponential discounting, mean-variance objective, time-inconsistent linear quadratic regulator, probability distortion, and market equilibrium with time-inconsistent preferences. Time-Inconsistent Control Theory with Finance Applications offers the first comprehensive treatment of time-inconsistent control and stopping problems, in both continuous and discrete time, and in the context of finance applications. Intended for researchers and graduate students in the fields of finance and economics, it includes a review of the standard time-consistent results, bibliographical notes, as well as detailed examples showcasing time inconsistency problems. For the reader unacquainted with standard arbitrage theory, an appendix provides a toolbox of material needed for the book.

This book presents economic and socio-cultural perspectives on globalization from emerging markets. It explores the links between globalization and development, and reveals the dynamics, strengths and weaknesses, trends in and implications of globalization in emerging market economies. Gathering papers by leading experts in the field, it shares essential insights into the history and status quo of globalization processes and structures; identifies the opportunities provided by and risks posed by globalization; and sheds light on the way to global peace. The topics addressed range from globalization development within the Group of Twenty (G20), populist events such as "Brexit" as a form of historical irony, and a zeitgeist analysis of the globalization spirit; to the evolution of higher education and public administrative systems under the weight of globalization; not to mention emerging topics such as the informal economy and new rules for fleecing the South in the newly globalized trade system.

There are few innovations that have the potential to revolutionize commerce and have evolved so quickly that there remain significant misunderstandings about their operation, opportunity, and challenges as has Bitcoin in the dozen years since its invention. The potential for banking, transacting, and public recording of important records is profound, but can be displacing if not done with appropriate care, and is downright dangerous if certain pitfalls are not noted and avoided. Among other things, this book proves the existence of a Bitcoin dilemma that challenges the conventional wisdom which mistakenly asserts the incredibly intensive energy consumption in Proof-of-Work cryptocurrency mining will be remedied by more efficient mining machines or sustainable power sources. It shows for the first time within a well-specified economic model of Bitcoin mining that the recent runup in electricity consumption has a simple and inevitable explanation. For a coin with almost completely inelastic supply and steadily increasing demand, the conditions for accelerating electricity demand is consistent with economic theory and may well characterize the future of Bitcoin. The book also demonstrates the counterintuitive result that improvements in mining efficiency, in terms of electricity consumption per terahash of processing power, or decreases in electricity costs as cheaper sustainable energy is diverted to this industry, merely exacerbates the acceleration of energy consumption because of a prisoner's dilemma arms-race-to-the-bottom. The book proposes policy solutions to mitigate this Bitcoin dilemma but note that the mobility of industry capacity which needs but a ready supply of electricity and an Internet connection frustrates local regulation and warrants global solutions. The incredible opportunities of this industry will only be realized if our regulators, legislators, entrepreneurs, and general public garner a more complete and objective understanding of this and other Proof-of-Work mining techniques. The book provides this broader perspective based on the author's research as an economist, his position as a director of a large regional bank, his understanding as a technologist and as an environmental and sustainability researcher, and his public policy experience as a mayor who has also written books and articles about public policy and public finance.

"Agency Account Handling" strives to distinguish between good account handling and great account handling.

This book will help you understand the wider picture of client servicing, give you satisfied customers and allow you to go home at night with a smile on your face. In reality it may not avoid all the 'blood, sweat and tears' but it will certainly reduce them to a manageable level.

Good account handlers know instinctively most of the principles associated with effective client servicing. What results in great account handling is the difference an individual makes, all those little agency touches that add up to a competitive advantage and, essentially, the decision by an individual to concentrate on the right mix of priorities which will produce the most effective results.

It should inspire people to strive for satisfied clients, fulfilled professional lives and strong client service departments.

"This book is a beacon for account handlers, giving insight, confidence and experience, whether you read it cover to cover or dip into relevant sections.
It shines a light on the path to success for burgeoning careers and wily old dogs alike."
--Steve Aldridge, Creative Partner, Partners Andrews Aldridge

"Indispensable! A soup-to-nuts analysis of all aspects of account management. A must for any ambitious account handler, from any discipline, who wants to further their career."
--Suki Thompson, Managing Director, The Haystack Group

"There is much to recommend Mike's book. First, it fills a gap in the market. I haven't come across anything on great account handling practice, previously. Second, it has terrific depth and breadth. But what makes Mike's bookreally special is that it is a book to learn from. Having worked with Mike a lot over the last five years I know that he knows his stuff. What I hadn't realised is that he has a rare gift for imparting his stuff in the infectious way that is a pleasure to learn from."
--Malcolm White, Executive Planning Director, Euro RSCG London

An accessible and detailed overview of the risks posed by financial institutions Understanding Systemic Risk in Global Financial Markets offers an accessible yet detailed overview of the risks to financial stability posed by financial institutions designated as systemically important. The types of firms covered are primarily systemically important banks, non-banks, and financial market utilities such as central counterparties. Written by Aron Gottesman and Michael Leibrock, experts on the topic of systemic risk, this vital resource puts the spotlight on coherency, practitioner relevance, conceptual explanations, and practical exposition. Step by step, the authors explore the specific regulations enacted before and after the credit crisis of 2007-2009 to promote financial stability. The text also examines the criteria used by financial regulators to designate firms as systemically important. The quantitative and qualitative methods to measure the ongoing risks posed by systemically important financial institutions are surveyed. * A review of the regulations that identify systemically important financial institutions * The tools to use to detect early warning indications of default * A review of historical systemic events their common causes * Techniques to measure interconnectedness * Approaches for ranking the order the institutions which pose the greatest degree of default risk to the industry Understanding Systemic Risk in Global Financial Markets offers a must-have guide to the fundamentals of systemic risk and the key critical policies that work to reduce systemic risk and promoting financial stability.

Electronic payment is the economic backbone of all e-commerce transactions. This book covers the major subjects related to e-payment such as, for example, public key infrastructure, smart cards, payment agents, digital cash, SET protocols, and micro-payment. Its first part covers the infrastructure for secure e-payment over the Internet, whereas in the second part a variety of e-payment methods and systems are described. This edited volume offers a well-written and sound technical overview of the state of the art in e-payment for e-business developers, graduate students, and consultants. It is also ideally suited for classes and training courses in e-commerce or e-payment.

A Spiral Approach to Financial Mathematics lays a foundation of intuitive analysis of financial concepts early in the course, followed by a more detailed and nuanced treatment in later chapters. It introduces major financial concepts through real situations, integrates active learning, student focused explorations and examples with Excel spreadsheets and straightforward financial calculations. It is organized so sections can be read independently or through in-class guided-discovery activities and/or interactive lectures. Focusing on conceptual understanding to maximize comprehension and retention, using modern financial analysis tools and utilizing active learning, the book offers a modern approach that eliminates tedious and time-consuming calculations initially without underestimating the ability of readers.

Success in today's sophisticated financial markets depends on a firm understanding of key financial concepts and mathematical techniques. "Mastering Financial Calculations" explains them in a clear, comprehensive way -- so even if your mathematical background is limited, you'll thoroughly grasp what you need to know.

"Mastering Financial Calculations" starts by introducing the fundamentals of financial market arithmetic, including the core concepts of discounting, net present value, effective yields, and cash flow analysis. Next, walk step-by-step through the essential calculations and financial techniques behind money markets and futures, zero-coupon analysis, interest rate and currency swaps, bonds, foreign exchange, options, and more. Making use of many worked examples and practical exercises, the book explains challenging concepts such as forward pricing, duration analysis, swap valuation, and option pricing - all with exceptional clarity.

Whether you are a trader, fund manager, corporate treasurer, programmer, accountant, risk manager, or market student, you'll gain the ability to manipulate and apply these techniques with speed and confidence.

For the large number of developing countries undergoing significant structural transformations, one of the most important and controversial adjustment areas is that of the financial markets. Focusing on the role of the institutional and enabling environment within which financial reform occurs and on the integration of principles of finance with more macroeconomic approaches to the subject, the book contains case studies of reform experiences in Argentina, India, Nigeria, Turkey and Uruguay. Themes studied include the 'go slow' versus 'big bang' approach and the particular problem of bank-firm inter-linkages in Eastern Europe.

"How did Sweden go from a financially backward country to one with a well functioning financial system? Why did this financial revolution occur after the mid-nineteenth century and not before? This book discusses the role of politics and economics in this change and what it means for economic development, market integration and financial crises"--Provided by publisher.

This book collects selected articles addressing several currently debated issues in the field of international macroeconomics. They focus on the role of the central banks in the debate on how to come to terms with the long-term decline in productivity growth, insufficient aggregate demand, high economic uncertainty and growing inequalities following the global financial crisis. Central banks are of considerable importance in this debate since understanding the sluggishness of the recovery process as well as its implications for the natural interest rate are key to assessing output gaps and the monetary policy stance. The authors argue that a more dynamic domestic and external aggregate demand helps to raise the inflation rate, easing the constraint deriving from the zero lower bound and allowing monetary policy to depart from its current ultra-accommodative position. Beyond macroeconomic factors, the book also discusses a supportive financial environment as a precondition for the rebound of global economic activity, stressing that understanding capital flows is a prerequisite for economic-policy decisions.

The book provides a comprehensive overview of the latest econometric methods for studying the dynamics of macroeconomic and financial time series. It examines alternative methodological approaches and concepts, including quantile spectra and co-spectra, and explores topics such as non-linear and non-stationary behavior, stochastic volatility models, and the econometrics of commodity markets and globalization. Furthermore, it demonstrates the application of recent techniques in various fields: in the frequency domain, in the analysis of persistent dynamics, in the estimation of state space models and new classes of volatility models. The book is divided into two parts: The first part applies econometrics to the field of macroeconomics, discussing trend/cycle decomposition, growth analysis, monetary policy and international trade. The second part applies econometrics to a wide range of topics in financial economics, including price dynamics in equity, commodity and foreign exchange markets and portfolio analysis. The book is essential reading for scholars, students, and practitioners in government and financial institutions interested in applying recent econometric time series methods to financial and economic data.

This book addresses contemporary empirical issues in Islamic stock markets including volatility, efficiency and Sukuk defaults. The studies contained within this book consider a combination of pure Islamic stock markets and comparative studies, with reference to their conventional counterparts. The authors provide up-to-date, robust, accurate, reliable empirical enquiries addressing current issues of stock markets as well as providing up to date information and statistics to support future development and research. The book also covers a chapter on the current trends in research in Islamic capital markets, which analyses some recent and leading works to highlight and indicate the gaps in research that require further exploration. This book will be of value to all those who wish to gain a more thorough understanding of research in Islamic capital markets and the major topics in the field.

The clarity and guidance valuation analysts have been thirsting for The business appraisal community regularly names the valuation of pass-through entities as a major issue of concern. Courts, appraisers, and the IRS have long been at odds on the topic, and the contention within the appraisal community itself over methods and inputs further complicates the issue. Valuing Pass-Through Entities provides clarity for the analyst tasked with valuation, offering clear explanations of the different perspectives and approaches to the process. Valuing Pass-Through Entities cuts through the chatter to: * Explain the advantages and limitations of different types of pass-through entities * Analyze the different viewpoints currently dividing the appraisal community * Gain a fresh perspective on landmark cases * Explain how to properly utilize a court-tested model * Examine detailed sensitivity analyses of different inputs under the income and market approaches The book includes illustrative examples, templates, and a useful technical supplement, plus case studies that demonstrate the real-world effects of various pass-through entity valuation methods and inputs. Detailed analyses and an easy-to-apply model simplify the process while positively affecting outcomes. The companion website provides the text of landmark court decisions, a blog featuring industry trends and tidbits, additional articles, and the insight of the author and other industry leaders. Valuation requires the successful juggling of multiple variables, many of which can have a major impact on value. Analysts need to know how to balance each factor and apply the appropriate rates and discounts, but a lack of standard practice often leaves the issue too subjective. Valuing Pass-Through Entities clears the air, providing real-world guidelines and tools.