This module introduces the fundamental principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics and demonstrates how economic data can be analysed and applied to support effective business and financial decision-making. Students develop the ability to interpret and use key micro- and macro-economic indicators through a range of data analytical techniques, enabling them to evaluate business performance and broader economic conditions in a structured, evidence-based manner. This economic foundation provides the analytical context required to understand how firms operate and make decisions within dynamic market environments.

Building on this economic foundation, the module then shifts its focus to financial objectives and financial management, introducing key theories and contemporary issues relating to ownership, control, and corporate governance. These concepts are linked to organisational decision-making and the overarching objective of creating and sustaining value. To support this understanding, students develop practical skills in calculating, analysing, and interpreting a wide range of financial ratios, including profitability, liquidity, efficiency, capital gearing, and investor ratios. The module further examines working capital management and cash management techniques, highlighting their critical role in maintaining short-term financial stability and operational efficiency. Together, these topics enable to assess financial performance and position from both managerial and investor perspectives.

Having established a strong grounding in financial performance and position analysis, the module progresses to the application of time value of money principles, the capital budgeting process, and investment appraisal techniques commonly used in practice. This section provides an in-depth treatment of discounted cash flow (DCF) methods, including accounting rate of return (ARR), net present value (NPV), payback and internal rate of return (IRR), while also considering practical constraints such as capital rationing and the impact of taxation on investment decisions. By the end of the module, students will be able to integrate economic insights with financial analysis to support robust, real-world strategic decision-making, demonstrating confidence in applying both theoretical concepts and quantitative techniques in a business context.

Individual Evidence-Based Business Analysis Report (30%)

In this assessment, students will produce an evidence-based business analysis report that critically examines how financial and economic data inform strategic and operational decision-making across key business functions, including finance, operations, marketing, supply chain management, human resources, and information technology. Drawing on real-world economic and financial data from reputable sources (e.g., BBC, Bloomberg, IMF, World Bank, OECD, and company financial reports), students will evaluate how changes in economic conditions influence organisational performance and business strategy.

The report should integrate quantitative analysis and data visualisation techniques, including financial ratios, trend analysis, charts, graphs, and tables, to provide clear and robust evidence supporting the analysis. Students are expected to interpret findings critically and communicate data-driven insights and recommendations in a clear, structured, and professional manner suitable for senior management and non-technical business stakeholders. Emphasis should be placed on the quality of evidence, analytical depth, and the coherence of strategic conclusions drawn from the financial and economic data.

Final Assessment: Written Exam 70% (2 hours + 10 minutes reading time)

A two-hour written examination, with an additional 10-minute reading time, assessing students’ knowledge of core economic principles, their ability to apply integrated financial and data techniques that support financial planning and operational control within business organisational context. The exam typically includes a mix of short-answer questions, structured problems, and scenario-based tasks.

Interactive lectures - Core concepts in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and financial management are introduced through interactive lectures. These sessions combine theoretical explanations with real-world examples drawn from current economic conditions, financial markets, and corporate decision-making.

Seminars and Workshops - Focus on the practical application of concepts through numerical problem-solving, data interpretation, and short case studies. Students work through financial ratio analysis, working capital decisions, and investment appraisal techniques (ARR, NPV, IRR, DCF), developing the quantitative skills expected in professional examinations and industry practice.

Lab sessions for economic and financial data analytics - Students engage in guided activities using real economic and financial data to analyse micro- and macro-economic indicators. These sessions develop competency in data analytical techniques, enabling students to interpret trends, assess business performance, and support evidence-based financial decisions - these skills increasingly valued by employers and professional bodies.

Digital learning for professional and continuous skills development - Throughout the module, emphasis is placed on developing professional skills, including numerical accuracy, analytical reasoning, ethical awareness, and communication of financial information. Students are encouraged to earn digital badges by completing online short programmes in relation to Excel Visualisation, Getting Started with Excel for Data Visualisation, etc. which were introduced by the potential employers in financial service industry and showcase these gained skills in LinkedIn.

1. Explain fundamental finance and business economics principles.

Knowledge and Understanding

2. Apply basic quantitative techniques to make investment and finance decisions.

Application and Problem Solving

3. Use descriptive data analytics and data visualisation tools to evaluate financial performance.

Digital Literacy
Research Skills

4. Analyse the interactions between finance and key business functions to evaluate their impact on organisational performance.

Application and Problem Solving

Atrill, P. and McLaney, E. (2021) Financial Management for Decision Makers. 9th edn. Harlow: Pearson Education.

Brealey, R. A., Myers, S. C. and Allen, F. (2025) Principles of Corporate Finance. 15th edn. New York: McGraw-Hill Education.

Friberg, R. (2025) Microeconomics: An Open Introduction. 1st edn. Oxford: Routledge. Available at: https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003623854.

Kaplan Publishing (2022) ACCA Financial Management (FM) Study Text. Wokingham: Kaplan Publishing. ISBN 978-1-83996-115-1.

Kaplan Publishing (2025) CIMA Fundamentals of Business Economics (BA1) Study Text 2025. London: Kaplan Publishing. ISBN: 978-1-83735-091-9.

Master the art of high-stakes financial decision-making in an unpredictable global market. This module challenges you to act as a financial advisor, transforming complex economic indicators and financial data into actionable business intelligence. By using macroeconomic theory with investment appraisal techniques, you will develop numerical skills and the ability to make financial decisions when facing risk and capital rationing. Through immersive simulations and data-driven case studies, you will gain the confidence to lead evidence-based strategy, equipping you with the elite competencies needed to influence board-level decisions and accelerate your career in financial leadership.