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Financial services are at the heart of the UK economy, helping people manage money, businesses access finance and markets channel investment where it is needed. Whether you are at the early stages of your career, moving into a finance-related role for the first time, or looking to refresh your understanding, this course gives you a clear and accessible foundation.
You will explore the role of banks, financial markets, regulators and key institutions, while building the context needed to understand how the sector operates in practice. The course is designed to make complex topics easier to navigate, with practical examples that connect financial services to real-world outcomes.
By the end of the course, you will have a stronger grasp of how financial services support the economy, how different parts of the sector fit together, and why trust, regulation and innovation are so important.
We offer discounts for bulk bookings, making it easier and more cost-effective to support your team’s career development. To discuss your requirements and find out more about available rates, please contact our Training Team.
Module one: The fundamentals of finance
Understand the foundations of finance, what it is, why it matters, and how it supports individuals, businesses, and governments. Explore the financial system’s core functions, from payments and savings to risk management, and discover the services provided by retail, commercial, and investment banks.
Module two: The role of finance in the UK economy
Examine how the City of London evolved into a leading global financial hub. Trace the history of financial institutions, markets, and regulation, from early trade to the Big Bang reforms and beyond, to understand the UK’s central role in global finance.
Module three: Financial institutions and services
Explore the structure and function of key financial institutions, including retail, commercial, investment banks, and insurance providers. Learn how these institutions deliver core services, from mortgages and credit to trade finance, and their importance to the wider economy.
Module four: How financial markets facilitate capital flow and investment
Discover how financial markets operate, from money and capital markets to foreign exchange and derivatives. Understand how investment banks, asset managers, and trading activities help raise capital, support investment, and manage financial risk.
Module five: Regulatory bodies and compliance responsibilities
Gain an understanding of the UK’s financial regulatory framework. Explore the role of key regulators such as the Bank of England (BoE), Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), and Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA), and learn about conduct standards, compliance requirements, and the importance of ethics, trust, and culture in financial services.
Module six: The evolving landscape of digital finance, sustainability, and risk
Examine the modern trends shaping financial services, from fintech and digital banking to sustainable finance and ESG. Consider the challenges of cybersecurity and economic crime in a digital world, and the strategies employed to build resilience in the sector.
This on-demand course is designed for individuals seeking to develop a comprehensive understanding of financial services.
This could be someone new to the finance sector, such as a recent graduate, or someone moving into finance from another industry.
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