Course Introduction

This course provides a deep dive into the brokerage operations within investment banking. From understanding the fundamentals of brokerage firms to mastering the complexities of trade settlement and corporate actions, learners will gain comprehensive insights into the processes that drive financial markets.

Through real-world examples and hands-on learning, participants will become proficient in topics like margin trading, securities clearance, trade reconciliation, and the role of clearinghouses. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional in the finance sector, this course equips you with the knowledge and skills to excel in brokerage operations.

Section-Wise Curriculum Overview

Section 1: Introduction

Begin your journey into brokerage operations with foundational knowledge.

• Lecture 1: Introduction to Brokerage Operations in Investment Banking (Preview enabled)
  Understand the role and importance of brokerage operations in the financial ecosystem.

Section 2: Getting Started

Learn about key players and concepts in brokerage operations.

• Lecture 2: Brokerage Firm
  Overview of brokerage firms and their functions.

• Lecture 3-4: Self Clearing & Correspondent Clearing
  Differences and roles in clearing processes.

• Lecture 5-6: Brokerage Operations
  Deep dive into the day-to-day operations of a brokerage.

• Lecture 7-8: Bonds Rating & Option Securities
  Basics of bond ratings and options trading.

Section 3: Marketable Securities, Markets, and Exchanges

Explore financial instruments and trading platforms.

• Lecture 9-10: Marketable Securities
  Types and characteristics of marketable securities.

• Lecture 11: Key Terms in Mutual Funds
  Essential concepts in mutual fund investments.

• Lecture 12-13: Markets and Exchanges
  Overview of financial markets and exchanges.

• Lecture 14-16: Securities Identifiers & Clearance
  Processes for identifying and settling securities transactions.

• Lecture 17: Securities Industry Automation Corporation
  Role of technology in automating securities trading.

Section 4: Types of Accounts

Understand account types and structures in brokerage.

• Lecture 18: Types of Customer and Brokerage Accounts (Preview enabled)
  Overview of account types for different clients.

• Lecture 19-20: Partnership Accounts & Account Structures
  Special account considerations for partnerships and structures.

Section 5: The Trade Life Cycle

Master the stages of trade execution and settlement.

• Lecture 21-22: Trading and Types of Trade Cycles
  Overview of the trade life cycle and its variations.

• Lecture 23-28: Specialized Trade Cycles (Options, Futures, Derivatives)
  Practical insights into trading cycles across various instruments.

Section 6: Order Room

Dive into order management and trade confirmation processes.

• Lecture 29: Brokerage Trade Cycle
  Understanding the brokerage trade workflow.

• Lecture 30-34: Orders and Confirmations
  Trailing stop orders, limit orders, and trade confirmations.

Section 7: Purchase and Sales

Delve into the operations of buying and selling securities.

• Lecture 35-41: Trade Processing and Reconciliation
  Handling commissions, accrued interest, and tax implications.

• Lecture 42-53: Trade Settlement and Clearing
  Advanced concepts like net settlement, CNS, and clearinghouse roles.

Section 8: Margin Department

Learn the workings of margin accounts and lending.

• Lecture 54-57: Margin Department
  Buying shares on margin, calculating account values, and interest rates.

Section 9: Cashier’s Department

Understand the back-office processes in brokerage operations.

• Lecture 58-68: DTC Settlements and Securities Movement
  The role of the Depository Trust Company in settlements.

Section 10: Corporate Actions

Analyze and manage corporate events and their impact.

• Lecture 69-83: Corporate Actions and Regulations
  Stock splits, dividends, reorganizations, and brokerage operation compliance.

Conclusion

This course prepares you to navigate the complexities of brokerage operations confidently. With knowledge of trade cycles, margin trading, account structures, and corporate actions, you will gain the expertise needed to excel in the fast-paced world of investment banking.