Fast Track Finance #1

Chapter 1: Time Value of Money
In this chapter, we introduce the framework of time value of money (TVM) in a carefully structured way, using relatively simple applications.

Chapter 2: Time Value of Money - Applications
In this chapter, we build on Chapter 1 and move quickly to more advanced applications of TVM focusing on situations we confront on a daily basis.

Chapter 3: Decision Criteria
In this chapter, we develop an understanding of alternative decision criteria - Net Present Value (NPV), Internal Rate of Return (IRR), Profitability, etc. - that are commonly used in the real world, with a focus on a critical evaluation of their strengths and weaknesses.

Chapter 4: Decision Making & Cash Flows
This chapter contains a basic introduction to the key determinants of cash flows using accounting principles.

Chapter 5: Bond Valuation
This chapter introduces you to the most common vehicle of investment/financing: bonds. Though introductory, we attempt to cover a fair amount of content and with real world applications.

Chapter 6: Stock Valuation
This chapter provides an exposure to the characteristics and the valuation of stocks, again with an eye toward real world applications.

Chapter 7: What is Risk?
In this chapter, we will develop a theory of risk based on the intuitive concept of diversification. Since knowledge of Statistics is key to understanding risk, we will introduce some important concepts of applications.

Chapter 8: Diversification and CAPM
In this chapter, we will introduce one of the most widely known models called CAPM (Capital Asset Pricing Model), which provides a simple and powerful relation between risk and return.

Chapter 9: Leverage, WACC & Valuation
This Chapter attempts to put together a cash flows and risk and return in a world with leverage financing. The content is our first exposure to valuation with a full-blown application.