The Irish economic experience has been marked by turbulence, excitement, optimism, and despair. While Ireland has achieved world-leading success in some areas of economic development, significant challenges remain in other vital sectors. This course examines the evolution of the Irish economy, from its origins as a rural, farming-based society to its transformation into a leading, export-driven, service-oriented economy. We will analyse the key drivers behind this success while critically assessing the role of government policy, regulation, taxation, public spending, and welfare. Additionally, we will examine economic issues through the lens of social justice, exploring how policies have shaped social outcomes in Ireland. Students will use data analysis and policy evaluation to assess both historical and contemporary economic challenges critically
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to finance and investment analysis, equipping you with the tools to critically assess financial securities and build portfolios tailored to specific risk-return profiles. We will begin by identifying your goals and constraints as an investor before exploring critical theories such as the Modern Portfolio Theory and the Capital Asset Pricing Model. The course covers a range of investment strategies, from passive index investing to more active approaches, such as those employed by hedge funds. You’ll also learn how to analyse securities, make informed trading decisions, and construct well-diversified portfolios. Additionally, we will examine the use of derivatives, including futures, options, and forwards, for both hedging and speculative purposes. By the end of the course, you will have a thorough understanding of the assumptions, limitations, and practical applications of various investment strategies, all reinforced through discussions of recent financial events and market trends