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David Musto
In this course, you’ll learn the foundational theories behind robo-advising, crowdfunding, and marketplace lending, and how to apply these theories to optimize your investments. Professor David Musto of the Wharton School has designed this course to help you gain a practical understanding of the theoretical frameworks of Modern Portfolio Theory and Financial Technology. You’ll learn how to apply the ideas behind robo-advising and crowdfunding to better assess and leverage a more optimized portfolio while managing risks. You’ll also explore the current consumer credit landscape and learn how to utilize financial technologies in your business. You’ll analyze real-life examples by studying the cases of Square and CommonBond. By the end of this course, you’ll have honed your skills in calculating risks and returns in robo-advising and crowdfunding, and be able to assess the value of marketplace lending to achieve better returns on your investments. No prerequisites are required for this course, although "Fintech: Foundations, Payments, and Regulations" and "Cryptocurrency and Blockchain: An Introduction to Digital Currencies" from Wharton's Fintech Specialization are recommended.
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What's inside
Syllabus
Module 1: Robo-Advising
What are Robo-advisers and how do they add value to the customers? This module was designed to give you foundational knowledge of Modern Portfolio Theory and Robo-Advising. You’ll identify and analyze the building blocks of robo-advising, and gain a better understanding of how robo-advisers deliver high-impact investment advice at high volume and low costs. Through the framework of Modern Portfolio Theory, you’ll learn key concepts such as Mean Variance Optimization, the importance of diversification, and the foundations of Index Mutual Funds. By the end of this module, you’ll be better able to assess the risks and benefits of traditional investment advising to secure a better return on your investments.
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Syllabus
Module 1: Robo-Advising
What are Robo-advisers and how do they add value to the customers? This module was designed to give you foundational knowledge of Modern Portfolio Theory and Robo-Advising. You’ll identify and analyze the building blocks of robo-advising, and gain a better understanding of how robo-advisers deliver high-impact investment advice at high volume and low costs. Through the framework of Modern Portfolio Theory, you’ll learn key concepts such as Mean Variance Optimization, the importance of diversification, and the foundations of Index Mutual Funds. By the end of this module, you’ll be better able to assess the risks and benefits of traditional investment advising to secure a better return on your investments.
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Develops foundational skills in modern portfolio theory, empowering students to assess risks and manage their investments more effectively
Covers practical applications of crowdfunding and marketplace lending, insights from the case studies of Square and CommonBond
Taught by David Musto of the Wharton School, who is renowned for his expertise in modern portfolio theory and financial technology
No prerequisites are required, making this course suitable for beginners in the field
Provides an in-depth understanding of financial technology and explores its potential for creating new market opportunities
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Reviews summary
Foundations in fintech investing and lending
According to learners, this course offers a solid foundation in the core areas of FinTech investing, including robo-advising, crowdfunding, and marketplace lending. Students found the lectures to be generally clear and well-structured, providing a strong theoretical background rooted in Modern Portfolio Theory. Many appreciated the inclusion of real-world case studies, which helped illustrate practical applications. However, some learners noted that the course can be quite dense theoretically and may benefit from more practical examples or additional resources for deeper understanding. Overall, it's seen as a valuable introduction, particularly for those new to these specific FinTech domains, though experienced individuals might find parts too introductory or theoretical.
Excellent starting point for new learners.
"As someone new to FinTech, this course provided an excellent overview and starting point."
"I feel like I have a solid foundation now to explore these areas further."
"This course is a great introduction to the core concepts of modern investing and lending."
"Perfect for getting up to speed on the basics of robo-advising and crowdfunding."
Real-world examples illustrate concepts.
"The case studies on Square and CommonBond were highlights, bringing the theoretical concepts to life."
"I enjoyed the practical application shown through real company examples."
"Seeing how these concepts play out in actual businesses like Square was very helpful."
"The case studies added a lot of value and made the material feel more relevant."
Instructor explains complex topics clearly.
"Professor Musto's lectures were clear and easy to follow, making complex topics like MPT accessible."
"I found the lecture videos to be engaging and well-paced."
"The instructor broke down potentially confusing subjects effectively."
"Excellent delivery of the material by the professor."
Provides a deep dive into foundational theories.
"The course provided a very strong theoretical foundation, especially concerning Modern Portfolio Theory and its application to robo-advising."
"I appreciated the academic rigor; it really grounded the concepts in solid financial theory before moving to applications."
"Covers the fundamental principles of robo-advising, crowdfunding, and P2P lending effectively from a theoretical standpoint."
"I felt the course did an excellent job explaining the 'why' behind these FinTech models through established financial frameworks."
Theoretical content is challenging at times.
"The concepts, particularly in the early modules on MPT, are quite dense and require focus."
"Found some of the theoretical sections challenging without a strong finance background."
"This course is not easy; be prepared for some complex theoretical frameworks."
"While clear, the sheer amount of theory presented can be overwhelming sometimes."
Could use more hands-on or practical guidance.
"While the theory is strong, I felt it lacked practical guidance on *how* to actually implement or use these models."
"Could use more in-depth coverage on practical aspects rather than just the underlying theory."
"I was hoping for more practical tips on investing or evaluating crowdfunding opportunities myself."
"Felt a bit too academic at times; would have loved more 'how-to' content."
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 Lending, Crowdfunding, and Modern Investing with these
activities:
Review financial mathematics concepts
Show steps
Financial mathematics is essential for understanding the quantitative aspects of robo-advising, crowdfunding, and marketplace lending. Reviewing these concepts will help you to better grasp the material covered in the course.
Browse courses on
Financial Mathematics
Show steps
-
Review your notes from previous courses on financial mathematics.
-
Work through practice problems to test your understanding of the concepts.
Follow a tutorial on marketplace lending
Show steps
Marketplace lending is a rapidly growing industry. Following a tutorial can help you to understand the key concepts and players in this market.
Show steps
-
Choose a tutorial that covers the basics of marketplace lending.
-
Follow the steps in the tutorial to learn about the different types of marketplace lending platforms and the risks and rewards involved.
Practice calculating risks and returns in robo-advising
Show steps
Robo-advising involves complex calculations for risk and return. Practicing these calculations will improve your ability to evaluate and select robo-advising services.
Browse courses on
Robo-Advising
Show steps
-
Use an online calculator or spreadsheet to calculate the expected return and risk of different asset allocations.
-
Compare the results of your calculations to the recommendations of different robo-advising platforms.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Participate in a peer-led study group
Show steps
Discussing the course material with peers can help you to identify areas where you need additional support and gain new perspectives on the topics covered.
Show steps
-
Find a group of classmates who are also interested in forming a study group.
-
Meet regularly to discuss the course material, work on practice problems, and prepare for exams.
Write a blog post on the benefits of crowdfunding
Show steps
Creating a blog post on crowdfunding can help you to solidify your understanding of its benefits and challenges, as well as explore different approaches to this form of fundraising.
Browse courses on
Crowdfunding
Show steps
-
Research the different types of crowdfunding platforms and their advantages and disadvantages.
-
Identify a specific crowdfunding campaign and analyze its success factors.
-
Write a blog post sharing your findings and insights on the benefits of crowdfunding.
Enter a fintech case competition
Show steps
Fintech case competitions provide an opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills to real-world problems. Participating in a competition can help you to develop your critical thinking, problem-solving, and presentation skills.
Show steps
-
Identify a fintech case competition that is relevant to your interests.
-
Form a team of classmates or colleagues to work on the case.
-
Develop a solution to the case and prepare a presentation.
-
Present your solution to a panel of judges.
Develop a business plan for a fintech startup
Show steps
Creating a business plan for a fintech startup will allow you to apply the concepts and theories learned in the course to a real-world scenario.
Show steps
-
Identify a problem or opportunity in the fintech industry.
-
Develop a solution to the problem or opportunity.
-
Create a business plan outlining your solution, target market, and financial projections.
Review financial mathematics concepts
Show steps
Financial mathematics is essential for understanding the quantitative aspects of robo-advising, crowdfunding, and marketplace lending. Reviewing these concepts will help you to better grasp the material covered in the course.
Browse courses on
Financial Mathematics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review your notes from previous courses on financial mathematics.
- Work through practice problems to test your understanding of the concepts.
Follow a tutorial on marketplace lending
Show steps
Marketplace lending is a rapidly growing industry. Following a tutorial can help you to understand the key concepts and players in this market.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a tutorial that covers the basics of marketplace lending.
- Follow the steps in the tutorial to learn about the different types of marketplace lending platforms and the risks and rewards involved.
Practice calculating risks and returns in robo-advising
Show steps
Robo-advising involves complex calculations for risk and return. Practicing these calculations will improve your ability to evaluate and select robo-advising services.
Browse courses on
Robo-Advising
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Use an online calculator or spreadsheet to calculate the expected return and risk of different asset allocations.
- Compare the results of your calculations to the recommendations of different robo-advising platforms.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Participate in a peer-led study group
Show steps
Discussing the course material with peers can help you to identify areas where you need additional support and gain new perspectives on the topics covered.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a group of classmates who are also interested in forming a study group.
- Meet regularly to discuss the course material, work on practice problems, and prepare for exams.
Write a blog post on the benefits of crowdfunding
Show steps
Creating a blog post on crowdfunding can help you to solidify your understanding of its benefits and challenges, as well as explore different approaches to this form of fundraising.
Browse courses on
Crowdfunding
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research the different types of crowdfunding platforms and their advantages and disadvantages.
- Identify a specific crowdfunding campaign and analyze its success factors.
- Write a blog post sharing your findings and insights on the benefits of crowdfunding.
Enter a fintech case competition
Show steps
Fintech case competitions provide an opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills to real-world problems. Participating in a competition can help you to develop your critical thinking, problem-solving, and presentation skills.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a fintech case competition that is relevant to your interests.
- Form a team of classmates or colleagues to work on the case.
- Develop a solution to the case and prepare a presentation.
- Present your solution to a panel of judges.
Develop a business plan for a fintech startup
Show steps
Creating a business plan for a fintech startup will allow you to apply the concepts and theories learned in the course to a real-world scenario.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a problem or opportunity in the fintech industry.
- Develop a solution to the problem or opportunity.
- Create a business plan outlining your solution, target market, and financial projections.
Career center
Learners who complete Lending, Crowdfunding, and Modern Investing will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Financial Analyst
Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts play a crucial role in the financial industry, providing valuable insights and recommendations to investment professionals and businesses. This course in Lending, Crowdfunding, and Modern Investing offered by the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School would be highly beneficial for aspiring Financial Analysts. The course delves into the foundational theories behind robo-advising, crowdfunding, and marketplace lending, equipping you with the knowledge and skills to analyze and optimize investment portfolios. By gaining a deeper understanding of these innovative financial technologies, you can enhance your ability to make informed investment decisions and contribute effectively to the financial sector.
Portfolio Manager
Portfolio Manager
Portfolio Managers are responsible for managing investment portfolios on behalf of individuals and institutions. This course offered by Wharton in Lending, Crowdfunding, and Modern Investing provides a solid foundation for aspiring Portfolio Managers. The course covers the principles of Modern Portfolio Theory, which is essential for understanding how to construct and manage diversified portfolios that meet specific investment objectives. By learning about robo-advising and crowdfunding, you will gain insights into the latest trends in investment management and how to leverage these technologies to enhance portfolio performance.
Investment Banker
Investment Banker
Investment Bankers play a vital role in the financial markets, advising companies on mergers and acquisitions, capital raising, and other strategic transactions. This course in Lending, Crowdfunding, and Modern Investing offered by Wharton can provide valuable knowledge for aspiring Investment Bankers. The course covers the fundamentals of debt and equity financing, as well as the use of financial technologies in investment banking. By gaining a deeper understanding of these topics, you can enhance your ability to analyze financial transactions and provide sound advice to clients.
Financial Risk Manager
Financial Risk Manager
Financial Risk Managers are responsible for identifying, assessing, and mitigating financial risks faced by organizations. This course offered by Wharton in Lending, Crowdfunding, and Modern Investing can provide valuable insights for aspiring Financial Risk Managers. The course covers the principles of risk management, as well as the use of financial technologies to manage risk. By gaining a deeper understanding of these topics, you can enhance your ability to develop and implement effective risk management strategies.
FinTech Analyst
FinTech Analyst
FinTech Analysts specialize in analyzing the financial technology industry and identifying emerging trends. This course offered by Wharton in Lending, Crowdfunding, and Modern Investing can provide a strong foundation for aspiring FinTech Analysts. The course covers the latest developments in financial technologies, as well as the impact of these technologies on the financial industry. By gaining a deeper understanding of these topics, you can enhance your ability to analyze and evaluate the potential of FinTech companies.
Investment Fund Manager
Investment Fund Manager
Investment Fund Managers oversee the investment activities of mutual funds, hedge funds, and other investment vehicles. This course offered by Wharton in Lending, Crowdfunding, and Modern Investing can provide valuable knowledge for aspiring Investment Fund Managers. The course covers the principles of portfolio management, as well as the use of financial technologies in investment management. By gaining a deeper understanding of these topics, you can enhance your ability to manage investment funds and achieve superior returns for investors.
Financial Advisor
Financial Advisor
Financial Advisors provide financial advice to individuals and families. This course offered by Wharton in Lending, Crowdfunding, and Modern Investing can provide valuable knowledge for aspiring Financial Advisors. The course covers the principles of financial planning, as well as the use of financial technologies to provide advice. By gaining a deeper understanding of these topics, you can enhance your ability to help clients achieve their financial goals.
Business Consultant
Business Consultant
Business Consultants provide advice to businesses on a wide range of issues, including finance, strategy, and operations. This course offered by Wharton in Lending, Crowdfunding, and Modern Investing can provide valuable knowledge for aspiring Business Consultants. The course covers the principles of business analysis, as well as the use of financial technologies to improve business performance. By gaining a deeper understanding of these topics, you can enhance your ability to help businesses achieve their goals.
Financial Economist
Financial Economist
Financial Economists apply economic principles to analyze financial markets and institutions. This course offered by Wharton in Lending, Crowdfunding, and Modern Investing can provide valuable knowledge for aspiring Financial Economists. The course covers the principles of financial economics, as well as the use of financial technologies to analyze financial data. By gaining a deeper understanding of these topics, you can enhance your ability to conduct research and provide insights on financial markets.
Data Analyst
Data Analyst
Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to help businesses make informed decisions. This course offered by Wharton in Lending, Crowdfunding, and Modern Investing can provide valuable knowledge for aspiring Data Analysts. The course covers the principles of data analysis, as well as the use of financial technologies to analyze financial data. By gaining a deeper understanding of these topics, you can enhance your ability to extract insights from data and provide valuable recommendations to businesses.
Market Researcher
Market Researcher
Market Researchers conduct research to understand consumer behavior and market trends. This course offered by Wharton in Lending, Crowdfunding, and Modern Investing can provide valuable knowledge for aspiring Market Researchers. The course covers the principles of marketing research, as well as the use of financial technologies to conduct research. By gaining a deeper understanding of these topics, you can enhance your ability to gather and analyze market data and provide valuable insights to businesses.
Quantitative Analyst
Quantitative Analyst
Quantitative Analysts use mathematical and statistical models to analyze financial data and make investment decisions. This course offered by Wharton in Lending, Crowdfunding, and Modern Investing can provide valuable knowledge for aspiring Quantitative Analysts. The course covers the principles of quantitative finance, as well as the use of financial technologies to analyze financial data. By gaining a deeper understanding of these topics, you can enhance your ability to develop and implement quantitative models for investment决策Making.
Financial Technologist
Financial Technologist
Financial Technologists develop and implement financial technologies. This course offered by Wharton in Lending, Crowdfunding, and Modern Investing can provide valuable knowledge for aspiring Financial Technologists. The course covers the principles of financial technology, as well as the use of financial technologies to improve the financial industry. By gaining a deeper understanding of these topics, you can enhance your ability to develop and implement innovative financial technologies.
Blockchain Developer
Blockchain Developer
Blockchain Developers develop and implement blockchain-based applications. This course offered by Wharton in Lending, Crowdfunding, and Modern Investing can provide valuable knowledge for aspiring Blockchain Developers. The course covers the principles of blockchain technology, as well as the use of blockchain technology to develop innovative applications. By gaining a deeper understanding of these topics, you can enhance your ability to develop and implement blockchain-based solutions for a variety of industries.
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and implement software applications. This course offered by Wharton in Lending, Crowdfunding, and Modern Investing may be useful for aspiring Software Engineers who are interested in developing financial applications. The course covers the principles of software engineering, as well as the use of financial technologies to develop software applications. By gaining a deeper understanding of these topics, you can enhance your ability to develop and implement innovative software applications for the financial industry.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/xpqngf/lending
Reading list
We've selected 11 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
Lending, Crowdfunding, and Modern Investing.
This classic book on investing provides a timeless framework for making wise investment decisions. It must-read for anyone interested in investing.
Provides a unique perspective on wealth and happiness. It collection of essays that offer practical advice on how to live a meaningful and fulfilling life.
Save
Provides a practical guide to venture capital deals. It covers everything from negotiating terms to closing the deal.
Provides a practical guide to building successful startups. It covers topics such as customer development, product development, and marketing.
Provides a framework for understanding why large companies often fail to innovate. It must-read for anyone interested in corporate innovation.
Provides practical advice on how to build a successful business. It covers topics such as leadership, hiring, and firing.
Provides a unique perspective on building startups. It covers topics such as monopoly, competition, and the future of technology.
Provides a framework for understanding the challenges that startups face. It covers topics such as team dynamics, equity, and the role of the board.
Provides a concise overview of the core concepts of business. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn about business but does not have the time or resources to pursue an MBA.
Save
Provides a framework for understanding what makes a good strategy. It must-read for anyone who is interested in strategy or management.
Save
Provides a unique perspective on how to live a more fulfilling and productive life. It covers topics such as time management, productivity, and outsourcing.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/xpqngf/lending
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Effort
2-3 hours per week
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University of Pennsylvania
Instructor
David Musto
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This course belongs to a
collection
called
Fintech: Foundations & Applications of Financial Technology. It's comprised of four courses:
- FinTech: Foundations, Payments, and Regulations
- Cryptocurrency and Blockchain: An Introduction to Digital Currencies
- Application of AI, InsurTech, and Real Estate Technology
- Lending, Crowdfunding, and Modern Investing (viewing)
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