Section outline

  • Week 1: An overview of the financial system and global influences

    Week 1 consists of two parts; the financial system and global influences. At the end of this week you will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the financial system in New Zealand and be starting to develop an awareness of the language of finance. The introduction to global influences introduces the concept of balance of payments and the exchange rate and highlights some topical current events that impact on New Zealand.  At the end of this you will be able to demonstrate that you are aware of some of the global influences have an effect on your finances.

    Your tasks for Week 1

    Reading

    Please read pp5-19 of the article by Mortlock (2003) . This section of Mortlock's (2003) article describes New Zealand's financial system.  It is slightly dated in terms of the numbers and sizes of financial institutions but the key elements of the financial system are unchanged. You can access the article by using the link to the Reserve Bank website or by clicking on the pdf file link.