Curriculum Guide · Courses

Professor Saulski

LL.M Course 705 (cross-listed) | 2 credit hours

The rise of China as a major economic and commercial power is one of the most significant events in recent history. In the coming years, Chinese companies and financial institutions will increasingly expand their presence into the global marketplace, while foreign firms and investors will continue to seek access to ever-expanding Chinese markets. In conjunction with its growing integration and influence in the world economy, China will play an increasingly significant role in those international organizations governing the global financial system such as the International Monetary Fund, the G20 and the Financial Stability Board. For those lawyers and business leaders wishing to engage in commercial ventures with China, as well as those policymakers and financial regulators engaging with China on economic and financial matters, it is crucial to have a firm understanding China’s financial markets. Furthermore, for anyone wishing to understand China’s rise and, more importantly, the prospects for China’s continued economic and commercial success, it is necessary to understand both the major developments and persistent weaknesses of China’s financial sector.

This course will examine development and future prospects of China’s financial markets and institutions. It will explore the role of the financial markets in China’s state-directed development policies and, at the same time, examine the extent to which China’s markets are able to allocate capital to worthy investment projects and act as an important check on corporate governance. The course will look the Chinese banking sector, stock and bond markets, as well as the developing derivative markets and insurance industry. In each instance we will examine the extent to which these markets have become internationalized and how foreign investors and foreign companies can gain access to these markets in China. The course will look at the role of the Chinese government in regulating and directing those markets and to China’s expanding role in international financial governance and standard setting.

Recommended: Corporations and/or Securities Regulation.