Efficient Capital Markets

Question: Describe about the form of efficient capital markets, valuation of equity and bonds and analysis of mergers and acquisitions along with their structuring? Answer: The given corporate finance course introduced a host of new topics in the form of efficient capital markets, valuation of equity and bonds and analysis of mergers and acquisitions along with their structuring. I was aware that the course would prove to be highly challenging since I had limited exposure to the myriad concepts being discussed in the lectures. Further, the fact that course has a strong orientation towards mathematics was particularly discomforting considering my historical issues with mathematics. However, I was simultaneously aware that these concepts were integral to building a career in the field of accounting and finance. Additionally, I had interacted with some seniors who had advised me that the core focus during the course should be on understanding of the fundamental concepts without worrying too much about the mathematical portion. In the wake of the above background, I decided from the very beginning that I need to be sincere and regular with regards to my lectures and try to maximise the understanding. However, the success of this plan was limited to the first lecture which was more of an introduction. In the second lecture itself that focused on efficient capital markets, the concept clarity was missing. I could not understand much of the concepts with regards to the efficient markets and when I went home and tried to go through the lectures, I had more questions than answers. I thought that may be the next lecture would be less difficult but again there were certain conceptual issues that were not understood in the lectures despite the lecturer being cooperative and moving at a reasonably slow pace. I was becoming more frustrated and even it crossed my mind that I should quit the course as it is way too difficult for me. However, before doing so, I need to put in 100% of my effort only after which should I decide to quit. I decided that I could not let this happen again and need to make correction actions before the next lecture. Firstly, I took the help of some fellow students so as to clarify the concepts taught till now and this was immensely beneficial since I could freely ask all the basic questions, I had in my mind. Also, I decided that I would start preparing the topic to be taught in the next class so as to gain some basic knowledge that could enable me to further my conceptual understanding in the class. Further, if the basic knowledge is lacking, then there is a hesitation to put forward the question also. However, once I was aware of the course material and the exact nature of my doubt, I could afford to ask the right questions. This strategy proved to be of immense help as it allowed better coverage of the course material with an enhanced understanding of concepts. Once the core concepts of the subject were clear, I promptly moved to the mathematical part where I relied on practice and garnering the guidance of the fellow students comfortable with the mathematical portion. The discussion in the class should have been more focused on the discussion of real case studies which primarily would have catered to my preferred kinaesthetic learning style. The emphasis using this learning style coul d have led to better application of the complex concepts that have been taught in the course. During the related practical application of mergers and acquisitions, I faced immense amount of issues and thus discussing some more case studies in this regard could have been engaging and immensely helpful. The various learning from the course would be immensely helpful in my professional career is accounting and finance where the emphasis should be on the underlying conceptual clarity. Once this is assured, then the mathematical application is taken care of with some able guidance and practice. Further, an integral role in played by the various mathematical aids particularly spreadsheets that require immense perfection through continuous practice. As a result, during my orientation training, I intend to pay close attention to the concepts taught and preferably apply the same approach as in the class. With regards to the course, there are two main recommendations. One of these is that the teaching methodology could be more case oriented which would aid the practical application of concepts taught. Additionally, for students who do not have any background, it may be prudent to provide some basic classes so as to make them comfortable with the subject matter.