After completing this course, you will:
1. Know and apply basic investment and retirement terms
1.1 Define a term in own words
1.2 Distinguish between correct and incorrect uses of a term
1.3 Select the term that best describes an idea, action, or event
1.4 Properly use new terms in assigned writing projects
2. Understand the different characteristics of investment classes
2.1 Identify asset classes (capital markets) and their historical risk/return characteristics
2.2 Describe the typical features of stocks and bonds
2.3 Compare and contrast the primary and secondary markets
3. Understand basic financial principles
3.1 Explain the time value of money
3.2 Describe the effects of inflation on savings
3.3 Understand the principle of compounding
3.4 Understand the concept of market efficiency
3.5 Define the three forms of the efficient market hypothesis
3.6 Understand the principle of diversification
3.7 Understand the effects of asset allocation on risk and return
4. Understand the Relation Between Risk and Return
4.1 Identify the major factors that affect stock and bond prices
4.2 Calculate a stock’s alpha and beta
4.3 Explain the concept of standard deviation
4.4 Explain the importance of diversification
4.5 Explain the effect of asset allocation on risk and return
5. Draft an Investment Policy Statement
5.1 Define a plan’s investment objectives
5.2 Identify the provisions of an investment policy statement
5.3 Suggest performance benchmarks
5.4 Identify the role of ETIs within the portfolio
5.5 Work with investment advisors to set ranges for asset allocation
5.6 Rebalance the portfolio, if necessary
6. Work Effectively with Investment Professionals
6.1 Develop a communication strategy for dealing with investment professionals
6.2 Develop a strategy for interviewing and hiring investment professionals
6.3 Understanding management styles
6.4 Develop a procedure for monitoring, evaluating, and terminating investment professionals
For sample materials, click here.