We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Christopher Geczy and Natasha Sarin

In this course, you’ll learn the key components of modern-day investment strategies which utilize fintech. Professors Natasha Sarin and Chris Geczy of the Wharton School have designed this course to help you understand the complex structure of payment methods and financial regulations, so you can determine how fintech plays a role in the future of investing. Through analysis of robo-advising and changing demographic forces, you’ll learn how basic elements of trust underlie complex choice architecture in investments and impact investing. You’ll also explore payment methodologies and how fintech is emerging as an entrepreneurial solution to both investments and payment systems. By the end of this course, you’ll be able to identify different financial technologies, and understand the dynamic between the innovations and regulations, and employ best practices in developing a fintech strategy for yourself or your business. No prerequisites are required for this course, although a basic understanding of credit cards and other payment methods is helpful.

Enroll now

What's inside

Syllabus

Module 1: Overview of FinTech & Market Size
This module was designed to give you foundational overview of FinTech and robo-advising. You’ll identify the main goals of fintech and forecast the future of robo-advising by discussing Vanguard’s Personal Advisor Services. Through defining the market size, you’ll learn key areas in which fintech and financial apps have gained traction. And finally, you will analyze the reported valuations of selected robo-advisors and observe the growth of fintech in both insurtech and global markets. By the end of this module, you’ll be better able to assess the value of FinTech and robo-advising, and gain a better understanding of the future of fintech in various financial markets.
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores fintech and robo-advising, which is standard in the financial industry
Taught by professors Natasha Sarin and Chris Geczy, who are recognized for their work in the Wharton School
Develops knowledge in fintech strategies and their role in the future of investing
Provides insights into changing demographic forces that impact investment strategies
Examines the dynamic between financial innovations and regulations, which is highly relevant to the finance industry
Explicitly requires no prerequisites, making it accessible to a wide range of learners

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Fintech: foundations, payments, and regulations

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundational overview of FinTech, payments, and regulations. Many find it an excellent starting point for understanding the landscape, particularly highlighting the detailed sections on payments and regulations as particularly useful. However, some students note that the course is quite high-level and lacks technical depth or practical case studies, making it less valuable for those with prior experience or seeking hands-on skills. The pace can feel varied, sometimes slow, sometimes rushed, depending on the learner's background. Overall, it serves well as an introduction to the core concepts but may require supplementing with other resources for deeper dives or practical application.
Pace feels fast or slow depending on background.
"The overall pace sometimes felt slow, and other times rushed."
"I felt the pace was just right for an introductory course."
"Could have moved a bit faster through some of the foundational parts."
Ideal for those new to FinTech.
"A great starting point for anyone interested in the field."
"This course is suitable for beginners looking for an introduction."
"I found it accessible even without a prior finance background."
"Recommended for absolute beginners starting their journey in FinTech."
Modules on key industry aspects are strong.
"The sections on payments and regulatory aspects were particularly useful."
"I gained significant insight from the modules on payments and regulations."
"The focus on regulation was crucial and well-covered."
"Really appreciated the depth given to payment systems and their evolution."
Offers a solid introduction to FinTech essentials.
"It provides a solid foundational overview of FinTech, payments, and regulations."
"This course gives a great foundation for understanding the FinTech landscape."
"I feel it covers the essential basics of the field quite well."
"A good introduction for those new to the subject matter."
Content is high-level, not deeply technical.
"It is quite high-level though, don't expect deep technical dives."
"I was hoping for more practical case studies or technical details."
"I felt it lacked depth in certain areas; it's more of a general overview."
"Needed to supplement with other resources for practical implementation."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in FinTech: Foundations, Payments, and Regulations with these activities:
Review Credit Card Basics
Reviewing credit card basics will provide a solid foundation for understanding the topics covered in this course.
Browse courses on Credit Cards
Show steps
  • Summarize the history and evolution of credit cards.
  • Explain the key features and benefits of credit cards.
  • Discuss the different types of credit cards available.
Organize Course Materials and Resources
Create a central repository of course materials, notes, and resources for easy reference and efficient learning.
Show steps
  • Gather all course materials, including lecture notes, assignments, and readings.
  • Organize materials into a logical structure using folders or note-taking software.
  • Create a digital or physical index for easy navigation and retrieval of materials.
Review Basic Financial Concepts
Strengthen your foundation in financial principles to enhance your understanding of fintech investment strategies.
Browse courses on Financial Concepts
Show steps
  • Review books or articles on topics like personal finance, investing, and financial markets.
  • Take online courses or attend workshops on financial literacy.
  • Practice calculating financial metrics and analyzing financial statements.
Seven other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all ten activities
Read 'The FinTech Book' by Susanne Chishti and Janos Barberis
Gain comprehensive knowledge about the fintech industry, its impact on financial markets, and the latest fintech innovations.
Show steps
  • Read the book thoroughly, taking notes and highlighting key concepts.
  • Summarize the main arguments and insights presented in the book.
Follow Tutorials on Robo-Advisors and Payment Systems
Enhance your understanding of fintech applications by following guided tutorials and demonstrations.
Show steps
  • Identify and follow online tutorials or workshops on specific fintech topics.
  • Practice using the techniques and strategies covered in the tutorials.
  • Apply the knowledge gained from the tutorials to real-world investment scenarios.
Discuss Payment Method Innovations
Engaging in peer discussions will foster a deeper understanding of the innovative approaches in payment methods.
Browse courses on Payment Methods
Show steps
  • Prepare talking points based on the course materials.
  • Lead the discussion and facilitate the exchange of ideas.
  • Summarize key insights and share learnings.
Explore Advanced Payment Processing Techniques
Following guided tutorials will enhance your understanding of advanced payment processing techniques used in fintech applications.
Browse courses on Payment Processing
Show steps
  • Identify reputable online tutorials or courses.
  • Complete the tutorials and practice the techniques.
  • Apply the techniques in a personal or academic project.
Create a Robo-Advisor Simulation
Building a simulation of a robo-advisor will provide hands-on experience in applying the concepts learned in this course.
Show steps
  • Design the architecture of the simulation.
  • Implement the core functionality of the simulation.
  • Test and validate the simulation.
Develop a Fintech Regulation Proposal
Creating a proposal on fintech regulation will allow you to apply your knowledge of the regulatory landscape and its impact on the fintech industry.
Browse courses on FinTech Regulation
Show steps
  • Research and analyze current fintech regulations.
  • Identify areas where regulations can be improved.
  • Develop a comprehensive proposal for new or revised regulations.
Develop a FinTech Investment Proposal
Apply your knowledge of fintech investment strategies to develop a comprehensive investment proposal for a real-world client or scenario.
Browse courses on Investment Analysis
Show steps
  • Define the client's investment objectives and risk tolerance.
  • Conduct market research to identify potential investment opportunities.
  • Develop a diversified investment portfolio using a combination of fintech tools and traditional investment strategies.
  • Create a detailed investment proposal outlining the rationale, expected returns, and risk management strategies.

Career center

Learners who complete FinTech: Foundations, Payments, and Regulations will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
FinTech Entrepreneur
Fintech Entrepreneurs are responsible for starting and running their own fintech companies. They will typically have a strong understanding of both technology and finance. Fintech Entrepreneurs typically have at least a bachelor's degree, but some may also have an MBA or other advanced degree. This course will help you build a foundation for your career as a Fintech Entrepreneur by breaking down fintech and all its components. The course will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to understand the fintech landscape and develop successful fintech products and services.
Financial Technologist
Financial Technologists are responsible for developing and implementing new financial technologies. They will typically have a strong understanding of both technology and finance. Financial Technologists typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. This course will help you build a foundation for your career as a Financial Technologist by breaking down fintech and all its components. The course will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to understand the fintech landscape and develop successful fintech products and services.
Financial Analyst
A Financial Analyst assists companies in making smart financial decisions. It is typical for Financial Analysts to hold either a bachelor's or a master's degree in finance. Those with master's degrees may have an advantage in their applications and be working towards financial management. This course will help you build a foundation for your career as a Financial Analyst by breaking down fintech and all its components. The course will provide you with the necessary knowledge to advise clients on investments and financial strategies.
FinTech Consultant
Fintech Consultants help businesses adopt and implement fintech solutions. They will typically have a strong understanding of both technology and finance. Fintech Consultants typically need a minimum of a bachelor's degree in business or a related field. This course will help you build a foundation for your career as a Fintech Consultant by breaking down fintech and all its components. The course will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to understand the fintech landscape and help businesses adopt and implement fintech solutions.
Financial Advisor
Financial Advisors help people with their financial planning. They will typically advise clients on investing and saving for the future. Financial Advisors need to be licensed. Most Financial Advisors have a bachelor's degree in finance, economics, or a related field. Some Financial Advisors also hold master's degrees or even MBAs. This course will help you build a foundation for your career as a Financial Advisor by breaking down financial technology and all its components. The course will provide you with the necessary knowledge to better understand your clients needs and develop the best financial strategies to meet those needs.
Investment Banker
Investment Bankers are in charge of helping companies raise capital for their business. Some typical duties are working on mergers and acquisitions or handling initial public offerings. Many Investment Bankers have a bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics or another business-related field. However, a master's degree is usually required to advance to senior roles. This course will help you build a foundation for your career as an Investment Banker by breaking down fintech and all its components. The course will provide you with the necessary knowledge to better understand the financial markets and the role of fintech within this landscape.
Financial Planner
Financial Planners help individuals and families manage their finances. They will typically help clients create a budget, plan for retirement, and save for their goals. Financial Planners typically need a minimum of a bachelor's degree, but many also have master's degrees. They also typically need to be licensed. This course will help you build a foundation for your career as a Financial Planner by discussing the role of technology in modern financial markets. The course will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to understand how fintech can be used to improve your clients' financial health.
Accountant
Accountants will typically be responsible for managing financial data for a business or organization. They create financial reports and file tax documents as well as help to manage the budget. Accountants typically need a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field. This course may be useful for those who wish to pursue a career as an Accountant and want to specialize in financial technology.
Financial Risk Analyst
Financial Risk Analysts are responsible for assessing the financial risks that a company or organization faces. They will typically develop and implement strategies to mitigate such risks. Financial Risk Analysts typically need a minimum of a bachelor's degree in finance or a related field. This course may be useful for those who wish to pursue a career as a Financial Risk Analyst and want to specialize in fintech.
Risk Manager
Risk Managers analyze and assess the financial risks that a company or organization faces. They may be responsible for implementing strategies to mitigate such risks. Risk Managers typically need a master's degree with a focus on financial risk management or a similar field. This course may be useful for those who wish to pursue a career as a Risk Manager and want to specialize in fintech.
Data Analyst
Data Analysts are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data. They will typically provide reports and insights that can be used to make better decisions. Data Analysts typically need a bachelor's degree in a field like computer science, statistics, or mathematics. This course may be useful for those who wish to pursue a career as a Data Analyst and want to specialize in financial technology.
Investment Manager
Investment Managers are responsible for managing investment portfolios for individuals and organizations. They will typically make investment decisions based on their analysis of the financial markets. Investment Managers typically need a bachelor's degree in finance or a related field. This course may be useful for those who wish to pursue a career as an Investment Manager and want to specialize in fintech.
Quant Analyst
Quant Analysts use mathematical and statistical models to analyze financial data. They will typically develop trading strategies and make investment decisions based on their analysis. Quant Analysts typically need a master's degree in a field like financial engineering, mathematics, or statistics. This course may be useful for those who wish to pursue a career as a Quant Analyst and want to specialize in fintech.
Business Analyst
Business Analysts work with businesses to identify opportunities for improvement. They will typically analyze data, develop recommendations, and help implement changes. Business Analysts typically need at least a bachelor's degree in business or a related field. This course may be useful for those who wish to pursue a career as a Business Analyst and want to specialize in fintech.
Software Engineer
Software Engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software applications. They may work on a variety of projects, from developing new features to fixing bugs. Software Engineers typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. This course may be useful for those who wish to pursue a career as a Software Engineer and want to specialize in financial technology.

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in FinTech: Foundations, Payments, and Regulations.
Takes a comprehensive approach to the fintech landscape, providing foundational and technical aspects to build a strong understanding of the burgeoning industry.
Provides a wide-ranging exploration of various fintech subsectors, including lending, payments, and investment, offering a comprehensive overview of the industry.
Explores the potential impact of fintech on various aspects of the financial industry, discussing blockchain, digital currencies, and other emerging technologies.
Offers a detailed analysis of the payments landscape, including emerging technologies and trends shaping the future of digital money.
While geared towards millennials, this book offers practical guidance on financial planning, including investment and risk management strategies relevant to all age groups.

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Similar courses

Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser