This course provides an overview of the financial system including the financial markets and institutions that comprise it in addition to exploring the nature and scope of the financial management of businesses through the financial analysis, planning, and decision-making functions. Topics include financial markets, money characteristics, interest rates, the Federal Reserve System monetary policy, financial performance analysis, working capital management, cost of capital, capital budgeting, the financial planning process, as well as the valuation of both stocks and bonds. Students will make extensive use of a financial calculator and Microsoft Excel for analysis and problem-solving.