Strategic Financial Analysis

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2016:

85 hours

For the purposes of considering requests for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Commonwealth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Objectives, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this course are encouraged to discuss this matter with the Student Equity and Disability Support Team: http://www.services.unimelb.edu.au/disability/

Making sustainable business or investment decisions requires comprehensive analysis. Strategic Financial Analysis provides useful frameworks needed to formulate strategies, evaluate options for business and contribute to organisational performance.The subject will cover strategies to carry out financial analysis and planning, investment analysis, capital structure and utilisation, valuing strategic assets and reviewing business opportunities.Participants will be better prepared to make key financial decisions that drive organisational performance.

At the end of the subject, participants should:

• Identify the components of an organisation’s financial analysis framework.
• Develop the ability to identify sources of complexity in investment decisions.
• Evaluation of current performance and sustainability based on market conditions.
• Perform analysis to gain an accurate valuation and understanding of what drives valuation.
• Develop an understanding of capital management principles.

2,500 word case study (100%) due four weeks after the end of the subject

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

On completion of this subject students will be able to;

• Applying financial theory and methods to knowledgably discuss the importance of a wide range of financial issues;
• Financial problem solving through the application of the necessary analytical skills and techniques; and
• Communicating financial ideas to practical problems commonly faced in an applied setting.
• Problem solving and critical thinking skills through consideration of an organisation’s financial position and use of tools to analyse financial data and market position.
• Collaborative learning and teamwork will be developed by working individually and in groups throughout the subject. Collaborative skills will also be fostered through exercises, case based discussions, and simulations that are incorporated into the program.