Foundations of Investment Banking

This unit introduces the history, players, regulations, and core market activities of investment banking while developing foundational skills in financial statement analysis, valuation, and deal research. Students will learn to use SEC filings and market tools to evaluate companies and transaction alternatives, preparing them for deeper valuation modeling and transaction execution in subsequent units.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze the structure, history, and primary functions of investment banking, including key market activities, participants, and regulatory milestones
• Apply Securities and Exchange Commission resources and Bloomberg data to locate, extract, and summarize company filings and market information relevant to underwriting and investor decisions
• Demonstrate financial statement analysis and basic valuation techniques by preparing and interpreting income statements, valuation multiples, return on equity, and the components needed for discounted cash flow estimates
• Evaluate transaction alternatives and deal structures—such as IPOs, mergers and acquisitions, and leveraged buyouts—by conducting industry analysis and assessing revenue recognition, leverage, and regulatory implications