Financial Markets and Institutions

The purpose of this book is to present a comprehensive overview of the structure, role, and functioning of a financial system. To this end, it describes and analyzes the functioning of financial products and services while discussing the role of financial intermediaries and markets in a financial system. Reading the chapters in this book will provide an understanding of fundamental financial principles and assist readers in obtaining knowledge and confidence concerning which products can fulfill personal requirements or what a financial intermediary can accomplish to support, for example, a developing business or a government seeking to collect funds by issuing bonds. The authors aim to provide a finance textbook with an internationally-oriented perspective, rather than focusing solely on individual regions or countries, as is often the case with comparable works. A more balanced perspective could contribute to an objective view of the global financial landscape, aiding students in understanding their own financial system while also acknowledging contextual variations.