Built on the foundation of the course “Principles of Macroeconomics”, this course provides a comprehensive treatment of macroeconomics from the viewpoints of policy as well as theory. It aims at achieving, in a balanced manner, two equally important objectives: (1) serving as a satisfactory input to other more specialised courses within the option and (2) providing appropriate training to students taking the option, many of whom are expected to become executives in large enterprises and organisations, applied economic researchers, analysts and forecasters, business journalists and teachers, and who will therefore need a concrete understanding of as wide a range of theoretical and policy topics as possible. As the sequel to introductory macroeconomics, this course will probe further into the rationality behind some standard theories and introduce recent development in economic theory.

This course offers a comprehensive introduction to green and sustainable finance, merging fundamental financial concepts with environmental and social considerations. The course covers the economics of sustainability and the environment, leading into sustainable investment strategies, including thematic investing, exclusionary screening, and ESG integration. Participants will delve into sustainable financial instruments such as green bonds, sustainable banking, and insurance while examining the role of ESG criteria in financial decision-making. The course will also discuss how reporting and disclosure requirements are imposed to address critical issues such as greenwashing. Through case studies, students will learn to navigate the challenges and opportunities within the evolving landscape of sustainable finance, equipping them with the knowledge of sustainable and green finance.