Course Details

Exam Registration1889
Course StatusOngoing
Course TypeElective
LanguageEnglish
Duration12 weeks
CategoriesManagement Studies, Economics & Finance, Managerial Economics
Credit Points3
LevelUndergraduate/Postgraduate
Start Date19 Jan 2026
End Date10 Apr 2026
Enrollment Ends02 Feb 2026
Exam Registration Ends20 Feb 2026
Exam Date25 Apr 2026 IST
NCrF Level4.5 — 8.0

Unlock the Dynamics of India's Financial System: A Premier Online Course from IIT Kharagpur

In today's interconnected global economy, a deep understanding of financial institutions and markets is not just an asset—it's a necessity. Whether you're an economics student, a finance professional, an MBA aspirant, or simply someone keen to understand the forces that drive economic growth, the structure and operations of the financial system are fundamental. We are excited to introduce a comprehensive, 12-week online course titled "Financial Institutions and Markets," meticulously designed and delivered by a leading expert from one of India's most prestigious institutions.

Meet Your Instructor: Prof. Jitendra Mahakud

This course is led by Prof. Jitendra Mahakud, a distinguished Professor of Economics and Finance at the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur. With a joint faculty position at the Vinod Gupta School of Management, Prof. Mahakud brings a wealth of academic and practical knowledge to the table.

His credentials are impeccable: a PhD from IIT Mumbai, authorship of the acclaimed textbook "Financial Institutions and Markets: Structure, Growth and Innovations" (McGraw Hill Education), editorship of advanced research books, and over 50 publications in leading national and international journals. His teaching and research expertise spans financial markets, corporate finance, investment management, and behavioral finance, ensuring you learn from a true authority in the field.

Course Overview: What Will You Learn?

This undergraduate/postgraduate level course offers a systematic exploration of the Indian financial landscape. It moves beyond theory to explain the real-world functions, operations, and critical interlinkages within the system. The curriculum is designed to provide a holistic view, making complex concepts accessible and relevant.

Key Learning Objectives:

  • Understand the pivotal role of the financial system in economic development.
  • Grasp core concepts of risk, return, yield, and asset valuation models.
  • Analyze the structure and theories of interest rates.
  • Examine the roles and operating procedures of key regulatory bodies like RBI, SEBI, IRDA, and PFRDA.
  • Delve into the mechanics of commercial banking, including risk management and NPA issues.
  • Explore the operations of other vital institutions: Insurance Companies, Mutual Funds, Pension Funds, and Credit Rating Agencies.
  • Navigate the major financial markets: Money Market, Bond Market, Stock Market, Derivatives Market, and the Foreign Exchange Market.

Detailed 12-Week Course Layout

The course is structured to build your knowledge progressively over 12 engaging weeks:

WeekTopics Covered
Week 1Introduction to Financial System and Economic Development Indicators
Week 2Concepts: Risk, Return & Yield, Asset Pricing Models, Valuation
Week 3Theories of Level and Structure of Interest Rates
Week 4Financial Regulations & Institutions (RBI, SEBI, IRDA, PFRDA), Corporate Governance
Week 5Commercial Banking: Role, Financials, International Banking, NPA, Risk Management
Week 6Other Financial Institutions – I: Provident Fund, Pension Fund, Insurance Companies
Week 7Other Financial Institutions – II: Mutual Funds, Credit Rating Agencies, Venture Capital
Week 8Money Markets: Call Money, Treasury Bills, Commercial Paper, Certificates of Deposit
Week 9Bond Market: Features, Pricing, Government & Corporate Bonds
Week 10Stock Market: Classification, IPO, Exchanges, Indices, Market Micro-structure
Week 11Derivatives Market: Types, Key Concepts, Pricing of Futures, Options & Swaps
Week 12Foreign Exchange Market: Structure, Risk Management, Exchange Rates, FDI/FII

Who Should Enroll?

Intended Audience: This course is perfectly suited for students and professionals in:

  • Economics
  • Commerce
  • MBA (Finance Specialization)
  • Management Studies
  • Anyone aspiring for a career in finance, banking, or investment.

Industry Support & Relevance: The curriculum is highly valued by financial consulting companies and is directly relevant to careers in regulatory bodies like the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA), and Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA).

Recommended Reading & Resources

To deepen your understanding, Prof. Mahakud recommends several authoritative texts, including his own co-authored book:

  • Financial Institutions and Markets: Structure, Growth and Innovations by L.M. Bhole and J. Mahakud (McGraw Hill).
  • Financial Markets and Institutions by Frederic Mishkin and Stanley Eakins (Pearson).
  • Financial Institutions & Markets by Jeff Madura (Cengage).
  • Bond Evaluation, Selection and Management by R. Stafford Johnson (Wiley).
  • Analysis of Investments and Management of Portfolios by Frank Reilly and Keith Brown (Cengage).

Why Choose This Course?

This isn't just another online lecture series. It's a structured academic journey from IIT Kharagpur that offers:

  • Academic Excellence: Learn from an IIT professor and published author.
  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers the entire spectrum of Indian financial systems and markets.
  • Career-Oriented Knowledge: Gain skills directly applicable in finance, consulting, and regulatory careers.
  • Structured Learning: A week-by-week plan ensures thorough and organized understanding.

Embark on this 12-week journey to demystify the engines of the Indian economy. Whether you aim to bolster your academic credentials, prepare for competitive exams, or advance your professional expertise, this course on Financial Institutions and Markets is your gateway to mastering the complex yet fascinating world of finance.

Enroll today and take the first step towards becoming an expert in the financial landscape!

Enroll Now →

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