In this class you will apply quantitative tools to deconstruct each of the main asset classes, developing a more nuanced understanding of the risks one owns, and to evaluate a managers' returns for delivering those risks. You will also learn how to design and evaluate strategic asset allocations for specific goals through a case evaluating the portfolio of the University of Virginia Endowment.

Foundations of Global Commerce examines the global context of business, the evolution of that context, and the many business implications. The course covers the global macro-economy, application of an analytical framework, and important future trends. In addition to mastering a defined body of knowledge, the course emphasizes conceptual thinking and a commitment to curiosity, critical analysis, active participation and intellectual risk-taking.

The primary objective of this course is to provide a foundational overview of business, including the themes of the history of business, business and society, and innovation. The course will enable students to gage interest in business and prepare students for business-related education, jobs, and careers. THIS COURSE IS A PREREQUISITE FOR THE MCINTIRE SCHOOL OF COMMERCE.

This course focuses on two questions. How do global macroeconomic conditions drive returns across asset classes? How do global investors use this information to build better portfolios? Topics will include issues in measuring economic data, the role of models in investing, portfolio analytics and allocation methods, factor-based investing, global growth, inflation and monetary policy, credit cycles, foreign exchange economics, and other timely topics in asset management.

Introduces the American legal system, emphasizing contracts, torts, agency, corporations, and partnerships. May be taken prior to enrollment in the McIntire School.

This course covers corporate valuation and the restructuring of both non-distressed firms (for example, leveraged buyout transactions) and distressed firms. Prerequisite: fourth-year Commerce.

Tax rules are pervasive in their effect on the decisions of businesses. This course uses the economics-based framework of "all parties, all taxes, all costs" to consider how both tax and non-tax factors affect business activities. Specific decision settings examined include mergers and acquisitions, compensation, and multi-jurisdictional tax planning. How firms report these tax effects in their financial statements will also be covered.

Provides an overview of corporate & global strategy, introducing frameworks for valuing companies, assessing the impact of strategic initiatives on firm value, & understanding corporate communication strategies & techniques. Topics include corporate governance, diversification, mergers & acquisitions, alliances, international market entries, DCF & relative valuation methods, corporate reputation management, investor & media relations.

This course provides an understanding of financial reporting issues related to business combinations, inter-corporate investments, consolidated financial statements, corporate restructurings, and international transactions and operations. Understanding the economic substance and impact these issues have upon the financial statements are important for professional accountants and financial analysts. Prerequisite: COMM 3110.

This interdisciplinary course will explore the complex choices in environmental policy and management by examining and integrating three relevant perspectives: environmental science, ethics and economics. Environmental science provides a basic understanding of the impacts of human activities on the environment. Economic analysis focuses on the relevant benefits and costs. Ethics addresses the conflicts of values involved in decisions about the environment. The balancing of environmental and economic costs and benefits, coupled with human beliefs about what is 'right' or 'wrong,' is at the heart of the environmental decision-making process. The process is complex because it involves a diverse set of stakeholders with differing perspectives and objectives. A case study approach will be used to examine the wide range of scientific, historical, cultural, ethical and legal dimensions of environmental issues.