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FinTech Foundations and Overview

4.7 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Based on 509 ratings
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Theodore Henry King CLARK

Our primary goal is to help you to understand FinTech and to become more confident and persuasive in your ability to analyze and make recommendations to executives within the finance industry regarding how to react to these changes.

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Our primary goal is to help you to understand FinTech and to become more confident and persuasive in your ability to analyze and make recommendations to executives within the finance industry regarding how to react to these changes.

This FIRST MOOC ON FINTECH IN ASIA-PACIFIC offered by HKUST presents the insight of several professors from the top business school in Asia as well as perspectives from industry professionals. HKUST has been ranked for many years as the No.1 EMBA program in the world, as the number one Finance program in Asia, and as the top MBA program in Asia by multiple independent rating and review journals and surveys.

This course "FinTech Foundations and Overview" offers the combined strengths of HKUST in Business, Finance, and Technology as one the world's leading academic institutions on an important area of technology and business innovations. For learners from outside Asia, this also gives an insight into changes happening in the most advanced FinTech markets of the world, since Asia leads worldwide in FinTech adoption and creative innovations.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to FinTech
In this module (week one), students will gain a multi-dimensional perspective on what FinTech means from the perspective of large firms (and older participants in the industry - e.g. dinosaurs), entrepreneurs, investors, and consumers. Examining what FinTech is, or is not, provides a foundations upon which students can build for better understanding of opportunities and changes.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores FinTech, an emerging field that is rapidly changing the financial industry
Taught by professors from the top business school in Asia, providing insights from industry professionals
Suitable for learners outside Asia, offering insights into the most advanced FinTech markets and innovations
Covers a comprehensive range of topics, including FinTech applications, technology, and implications for established businesses
Examines FinTech's relevance in both industry and academia
May require an existing foundation in business and finance for optimal understanding

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Reviews summary

Foundations and overview of fintech

According to learners, this course offers a solid foundation in FinTech for those in the business world. Students particularly appreciate the broad overview of FinTech applications and enabling technologies, finding it relevant for understanding industry changes. The inclusion of insights from HKUST and industry professionals is highlighted as a key strength, often citing the Asia-Pacific focus as unique and valuable. While the course provides a necessary introduction, some learners note that it is designed for business managers rather than "tech geeks," meaning the technical depth is limited, which might require supplemental study for those seeking more detailed technological understanding.
Provides unique insights into the APAC FinTech market.
"The focus on Asia-Pacific FinTech markets was unique and provided valuable perspective."
"Learned a lot about FinTech adoption and innovation in Asia, which is leading globally."
"Interesting to see the specific examples and trends from the Asia-Pacific region."
"For someone interested in the APAC market, this focus is a major plus."
"Wish there were more global examples alongside the APAC focus."
Offers valuable, up-to-date industry perspectives.
"The insights provided felt very current and relevant to today's FinTech market."
"Really appreciated the perspective from HKUST professors and industry experts."
"The course does a good job of linking theory to real-world FinTech trends."
"Gave me a much better understanding of the ongoing changes in the financial industry due to tech."
"Content is highly relevant for anyone working in or interested in the financial sector."
Tailored well for business professionals and students.
"The material was perfectly suited for someone from a business background wanting to understand FinTech."
"Loved that it wasn't overly technical. It focused on the business implications and applications."
"As a business manager, I found the level of technical detail just right to understand the concepts without getting lost."
"This course is great for getting the business perspective on FinTech innovations."
"Practical insights for applying FinTech concepts in a business context."
Provides a wide-ranging look at FinTech's landscape.
"The course gives an excellent overview of the FinTech landscape from multiple angles - business, tech, consumer."
"I gained a comprehensive understanding of various FinTech applications like lending, payments, and crypto."
"Really helpful in grasping the different pillars of FinTech and how they interact within the industry."
"Provides a solid foundational knowledge across diverse areas of FinTech."
"Covered all the essential areas to get started with understanding FinTech."
Limited technical detail, as intended by design.
"If you're looking for deep dives into blockchain or AI mechanics, this course is not for that."
"I needed to look up additional resources to fully understand some of the technologies mentioned."
"The tech module felt a bit superficial compared to the business parts."
"Wish there was a bit more explanation on how some of the core technologies actually work."
"Not suitable for those with a strong technical background already in these areas."

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 and Overview with these activities:
Review Financial Analysis
Review basic financial analysis skills to strengthen your understanding of financial statements and ratios.
Browse courses on Financial Analysis
Show steps
  • Review key financial ratios and their formulas.
  • Analyze a sample balance sheet and income statement.
  • Calculate and interpret financial ratios.
Gather FinTech Resources
Enhance your understanding by gathering and organizing relevant resources related to FinTech.
Show steps
  • Identify and collect articles, videos, and podcasts on FinTech.
  • Organize the resources using a tool like Evernote or OneNote.
  • Review the resources regularly to stay up-to-date with the industry.
Review basic financial concepts
Refresh your understanding of fundamental financial concepts such as financial statements, valuation, and risk management to strengthen your foundation for this course.
Browse courses on Finance
Show steps
  • Review textbooks or online resources to revisit core financial principles.
  • Complete practice problems or quizzes to test your comprehension.
  • Discuss financial concepts with peers or a mentor to clarify any uncertainties.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Explore Blockchain Technology
Enhance your understanding of blockchain technology by following online tutorials and resources.
Browse courses on Blockchain
Show steps
  • Follow a guided tutorial on the basics of blockchain.
  • Explore different types of blockchain platforms.
  • Understand the application of blockchain in various industries.
Explore emerging FinTech trends
Follow online tutorials or attend webinars to stay updated on the latest innovations and trends in FinTech, expanding your knowledge beyond the scope of this course.
Browse courses on Emerging Technologies
Show steps
  • Identify reputable sources for FinTech news and insights.
  • Subscribe to industry blogs, newsletters, or social media channels.
  • Attend virtual or in-person events to connect with experts and learn about new developments.
Host a FinTech discussion group
Organize and lead a discussion group with other students or industry professionals to explore different aspects of FinTech, share insights, and engage in critical thinking.
Browse courses on Fintech
Show steps
  • Identify a topic or a series of topics related to FinTech.
  • Create a schedule for the discussion group and invite participants.
  • Facilitate the discussions, encourage participation, and moderate the conversation.
  • Summarize the key takeaways and share them with the group.
Solve FinTech Case Studies
Deepen your understanding by analyzing and solving case studies related to FinTech companies.
Show steps
  • Read a case study and identify the key issues.
  • Analyze the company's financial performance and business model.
  • Develop recommendations for improving the company's performance.
Evaluate the latest blockchain technology
Create a presentation or report that evaluates the latest advances in blockchain technology, its potential impact on the financial industry, and how it could be integrated within existing business models.
Browse courses on Blockchain Technology
Show steps
  • Research and identify the key trends and innovations in blockchain technology.
  • Analyze the potential impact of blockchain technology on the financial industry.
  • Develop recommendations for how businesses can integrate blockchain technology into their operations.
  • Present or share your findings with others.
Analyze financial data using industry tools
Practice using industry-standard tools and techniques to analyze financial data, such as Excel, Python, or SQL, to develop your analytical skills and gain hands-on experience.
Browse courses on Financial Data Analysis
Show steps
  • Identify a relevant financial dataset or case study.
  • Select appropriate tools and techniques for data analysis.
  • Perform data analysis and interpretation.
  • Generate insights and make recommendations.

Career center

Learners who complete FinTech Foundations and Overview will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
FinTech Entrepreneur
A FinTech Entrepreneur is responsible for starting and running a FinTech company. This course may be useful by providing a foundation in FinTech and its implications for established businesses, as well as the technology enabling and supporting FinTech.
See salaries and explore the career path for FinTech Entrepreneur
FinTech Product Manager
A FinTech Product Manager is responsible for defining, developing, and launching new FinTech products. This course may be useful by providing a foundation in FinTech and its implications for established businesses, as well as the technology enabling and supporting FinTech.
See salaries and explore the career path for FinTech Product Manager
FinTech Analyst
A FinTech Analyst is responsible for analyzing FinTech trends and recommending investment opportunities. This course may be useful by providing a foundation in FinTech and its implications for established businesses, as well as the technology enabling and supporting FinTech.
See salaries and explore the career path for FinTech Analyst
FinTech Consultant
A FinTech Consultant is responsible for providing advice to FinTech companies on how to improve their performance. This course may be useful by providing a foundation in FinTech and its implications for established businesses, as well as the technology enabling and supporting FinTech.
See salaries and explore the career path for FinTech Consultant
FinTech Risk Manager
A FinTech Risk Manager is responsible for identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks for FinTech companies. This course may be useful by providing a foundation in FinTech and its implications for established businesses, as well as the technology enabling and supporting FinTech.
See salaries and explore the career path for FinTech Risk Manager
Data Analyst
A Data Analyst is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to identify trends and patterns. This course may be useful by providing a foundation in FinTech and its implications for established businesses, as well as the technology enabling and supporting FinTech.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst
Software Engineer
A Software Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software applications. This course may be useful by providing a foundation in FinTech and its implications for established businesses, as well as the technology enabling and supporting FinTech.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer
Financial Analyst
A Financial Analyst is responsible for evaluating financial risks, analyzing investment opportunities, and making appropriate recommendations to clients. This course may be useful by providing a foundation in FinTech and its implications for established businesses, as well as the technology enabling and supporting FinTech.
See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst
Business Analyst
A Business Analyst is responsible for analyzing business processes and recommending improvements. This course may be useful by providing a foundation in FinTech and its implications for established businesses, as well as the technology enabling and supporting FinTech.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst
Management Consultant
A Management Consultant is responsible for providing advice to organizations on how to improve their performance. This course may be useful by providing a foundation in FinTech and its implications for established businesses, as well as the technology enabling and supporting FinTech.
See salaries and explore the career path for Management Consultant
Product Manager
A Product Manager is responsible for defining, developing, and launching new products. This course may be useful by providing a foundation in FinTech and its implications for established businesses, as well as the technology enabling and supporting FinTech.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager
Investment Banker
An Investment Banker is responsible for advising companies on mergers and acquisitions, raising capital, and other financial transactions. This course may be helpful by providing a foundation in FinTech and its implications for established businesses, as well as the technology enabling and supporting FinTech.
See salaries and explore the career path for Investment Banker
Portfolio Manager
A Portfolio Manager is responsible for managing investment portfolios for individuals and institutions. This course may be useful by providing a foundation in FinTech and its implications for established businesses, as well as the technology enabling and supporting FinTech.
See salaries and explore the career path for Portfolio Manager
Risk Manager
A Risk Manager is responsible for identifying, assessing, and mitigating financial risks for organizations. This course may be useful by providing a foundation in FinTech and its implications for established businesses, as well as the technology enabling and supporting FinTech.
See salaries and explore the career path for Risk Manager
Financial Advisor
A Financial Advisor is responsible for providing financial advice to individuals and families. This course may be useful by providing a foundation in FinTech and its implications for established businesses, as well as the technology enabling and supporting FinTech.
See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Advisor

Reading list

We've selected six 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 and Overview.
Cover image
Blockchain Revolution
Save
Explores the potential of blockchain technology to transform various industries, including finance. It discusses the implications of blockchain for FinTech and provides insights into its potential impact on the global economy.
Blockchain Revolution: How the Technology Behind...
Paperback
$$
Blockchain Revolution: How the Technology Behind...
Paperback
$$
(Español) La revolución blockchain [The Blockchain Revolution]
Audible Audiobook
$$
Blockchain Revolution, Business Adventures Twelve...
Paperback
$$
(Português) Blockchain revolution (Portuguese Edition)
Kindle Edition
$
(Deutsch) Die Blockchain-Revolution: Wie die Technologie...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
CryptoDad
Save
Written by a former Chairman of the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission, this book provides a regulatory perspective on FinTech. It examines the challenges and opportunities posed by FinTech and offers recommendations for policy makers and regulators.
CryptoDad: The Fight for the Future of Money
Hardcover
$$
CryptoDad: The Fight for the Future of Money
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Innovator's Dilemma, with a New Foreword
Save
This classic management book provides insights into why established companies often fail to innovate and adapt to new technologies. It offers a framework for understanding the challenges of disruptive innovation and provides strategies for overcoming them.
The Innovator's Dilemma, with a New Foreword: When...
Hardcover
$$
The Innovator's Dilemma, with a New Foreword: When...
Audio CD
$$
The Innovator's Dilemma, with a New Foreword: When...
Kindle Edition
$$
Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use...
Save
This practical guide to entrepreneurship provides a step-by-step approach to building a successful startup. It emphasizes the importance of customer feedback, iteration, and continuous learning.
The Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use...
Hardcover
$$
The Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Zero to One
Save
Offers a unique perspective on entrepreneurship and innovation. It encourages entrepreneurs to focus on creating something new and valuable, rather than competing in existing markets.
Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the...
Hardcover
$$
The $100 Startup By Chris Guillebeau and Zero to...
Paperback
$$
Zero To One,The $100 Startup, You Are a Badass at...
Paperback
$$$
(Português) De zero a um [From Zero to One]: O que aprender...
Audible Audiobook
$
(Pусский) От нуля к единице: Как создать стартап, который...
Kindle Edition
$
(हिंदी) Zero to One: Notes on Start Ups, or How to Build...
Paperback
$
Zero to One: Notes on Start Ups, or How to Build...
Paperback
$$
(Deutsch) Zero to One: Wie Innovation unsere Gesellschaft...
Hardcover
$$
Zero to one : creëer de toekomst: wat iedere...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
The Truth Machine
Save
Provides an accessible introduction to cryptocurrency and its potential implications for the global economy. It explores the history, technology, and future of cryptocurrency and offers insights into its potential to disrupt traditional financial systems.
The Truth Machine
Paperback
Check
The Truth Machine
Kindle Edition
Check

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Rating
4.7 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Effort
Approx. 15 hours
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Instructor
Theodore Henry King CLARK
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা tiếng Việt پښتو آذربایجان دیلی
This course belongs to a collection called FinTech: Finance Industry Transformation and Regulation. It's comprised of four courses:
  1. FinTech Disruptive Innovation: Implications for Society
  2. FinTech Foundations and Overview (viewing)
  3. FinTech Risk Management
  4. FinTech Security and Regulation (RegTech)
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores FinTech, an emerging field that is rapidly changing the financial industry
Taught by professors from the top business school in Asia, providing insights from industry professionals
Suitable for learners outside Asia, offering insights into the most advanced FinTech markets and innovations
Covers a comprehensive range of topics, including FinTech applications, technology, and implications for established businesses
Examines FinTech's relevance in both industry and academia
May require an existing foundation in business and finance for optimal understanding
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