Professional Certificate in Technology Applications for Financial Services

This module aims to equip participants with an understanding of how technology is driving business innovation. It covers technology’s impacts on industries and nations, patterns of technological change, disruptive innovations-what they are, how they impact firms and industry change as well as how to deal with the response of firms to disruptive innovations, including the changing basis of competition in markets. It covers how startups as well as large companies approach innovation and the challenges they face in continuing to innovate while also needing to focus on nurturing their existing business. This module is designed for professionals to acquire entrepreneurial, innovative and agile mindset as well as capabilities as their ultimate source of competitive advantage in the rapidly-evolving digital era.

The module explores the fundamental concepts of blockchain, decentralized systems, smart contracts, and the economic and technological underpinnings of digital currencies. By examining a variety of industry applications of blockchain, participants will learn about the advantages and challenges of adopting blockchain technology, and the environment or situation where blockchain technology can be suitably applied.

This module provides a comprehensive understanding of data collaboration practices and the critical role of data governance in managing shared data across different industry sectors for mutual benefits. Participants will explore the concept of data collaboration and its significance in enhancing decision-making, research, and innovation. The module emphasizes the importance of data governance in ensuring ethical and secure data management and covers the establishment of policies, procedures, and standards to ensure data accuracy, accessibility, and protection. Consideration is given to legal and regulatory compliance, risk management, and ethical considerations in data collaboration. Through practical exercises, case studies, and discussions, participants will develop the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively engage in data collaboration initiatives and implement robust data governance frameworks.

The module provides participants with an overview and the foundation of emerging trends in Decentralized Finance (DeFi), the Web3, and green fintech technologies. Using a variety of examples, the course examines the latest developments and innovations in DeFi and Web3, exploring their impact on various industries and the broader digital landscape. The will also discuss environmental sustainability issues and how emerging technologies are used to support the green agenda. In particular, we will examine application of fintech in the carbon credit market and green bond market. Overall, the module aims to broaden our horizon by looking into the future possibilities created by the DeFi, Web3, and green technologies.

This module provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of the principles, practices, and strategies involved in protecting digital assets and managing cyber risks. The module explores the evolving threat landscape, cybersecurity frameworks, risk assessment methodologies, and effective risk mitigation techniques.

It offers an in-depth exploration of the latest trends and advancements in technology applications within the financial services industry. This module provides students with a comprehensive understanding of how technology is transforming various aspects of financial services, including banking, insurance, investment, and risk management. Participants will examine cutting-edge topics such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, big data analytics, and cybersecurity, and their impact on financial operations, customer experience, and regulatory compliance. Industry practitioners will be invited as guest speakers to share their entrepreneurial experience in fintech with participants.

The module provides participants with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in financial technology (FinTech) to real-world projects. Through hands-on learning and project-based assignments, participants will apply their technical and analytical skills to address complex challenges and deliver impactful FinTech projects. The module involves a significant research and / or development project under the supervision of an academic staff in any area of financial technology. At the end of the course, the participant must give a presentation to the academic supervisors, and submit a report detailing the findings and deliverables. The participant’s grade will be determined by the presentation and the report.