This course explains important characteristics of the markets in which equities, fixed-income instruments, derivatives, and alternative investments trade. It also focuses on the characteristics, analysis, and valuation of equity securities.

The reading on market organization and structure describes market classifications, types of assets and market participants, and how assets are traded.

The reading on security market indices explains how indices are constructed, managed, and used in investments.

The reading on market efficiency discusses the degree to which market prices reflect information. It also explains implications of different degrees of market efficiency for security analysis and portfolio management.

The reading on 'Overview of Equity Securities' discusses various types and features of equity securities and their roles in investment management.

The reading on 'Introduction to Industry and Company Analysis' explains how to conduct industry and company analyses; the reading's major focus is on understating a company's competitive position.

The previous two readings constitute necessary background knowledge for the reading on 'Equity Valuation: Concepts and Basic Tools', which introduces the subject of equity valuation.