Finance

Finance can be broadly defined as the science of money management. It plays a crucial role in the health of an economy and every business enterprise within it. Whereas accounting is mostly about measuring past performance, finance is more about planning for the future.

To understand how modern economies work, finance professionals need to understand the stock market, the financing of companies, financial contracts, corporate and government decision-making and portfolio choice. Financial advisers’ services to their communities include budgeting, investing, borrowing, lending, debt management, insuring, hedging, diversifying, asset management and retirement planning.

With rapidly advancing technology, increasing customer expectations and a changing regulatory landscape we are seeing more disruptive innovation in financial services. From crypto-currencies to big data and peer-to-peer lending, fintech innovations have captured the attention and imagination of customers, investors and incumbents.*

While the broad topics of study in the area of finance are stable, the world of finance is in constant flux.
*Source: Deloitte

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, tougher times for investors are ahead, with recovery predicted to be slow. January 2021 will see the inauguration of Joe Biden as the new president of the US, but his administration has a difficult job ahead: uniting a divided country, controlling the coronavirus pandemic and restoring a battered economy. However it is predicted that his administration will be favourable to New Zealand on several fronts, chiefly trade and climate change accord.

Also on the positive side, New Zealand’s success at controlling the virus may make the country an attractive environment for multinational investment and the international screen industry.

**Source: Forsyth Barr

• An in-depth understanding of fundamental finance concepts and theories and their application to businesses and financial markets
• Ability to consider the social, ethical, environmental and global aspects of financial decisions
• Strong data analysis skills
  
• Strategic thinking skills
• Problem solving skills
  
• Planning and organisation skills
• Relationship building and collaboration skills
• Oral and written communication skills
• Strong sense of ethics and professionalism
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
• A commitment to ongoing learning

With a degree in Finance, you will be well prepared for a career in banking, investment management or corporate finance.

You could become an actuary; capital investment manager; chief financial officer (CFO); corporate banker/finance specialist; debt collector; financial adviser/analyst/planner; insurance agent; investment banker; merchant banker; merger and acquisition specialist; mortgage broker; stockbroker or treasurer.

Finance professionals are most likely to find employment in investment and merchant banks, financial organisations and insurance companies, as well as privately as advisers and managers. They can also work in the public sector in Treasury and various ministries such as the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE).  

Finance graduate profiles

Beta Alpha Psi

Beta Alpha Psi is an international honorary organisation for Accounting, Finance and Informations Systems students and professionals.
Beta Alpha Psi

SavY

SavY aims to promote good financial habits in all young people, regardless of their backgrounds or their aspirations in life.
SavY

University of Auckland Investment Club (UAIC)

The club hosts workshops and events with high-profile guest speakers from finance and banking.
UAIC

More clubs and societies at the Business School

Institute of Finance Professionals New Zealand (INFINZ)

The member-based industry body for professionals working and participating in New Zealand's wholesale finance and capital markets.
Institute of Finance Professionals New Zealand

Institute of Financial Advisers

A professional membership organisation for financial advisers across all areas of advice such as lending, risk/insurance, KiwiSaver, investment, financial planning and more. 
Institute of Financial Advisers

Accounting and Finance Association of Australia and New Zealand (AFAANZ)

The premier body representing the interests of accounting and finance academics and other persons interested in accounting and finance education and research in Australia and New Zealand.
Accounting and Finance Association of Australia and New Zealand

Careers New Zealand

The Careers New Zealand website provides useful salary information for a range of business and industry roles, as well as information on the difference a qualification makes to what you are paid, and advice on negotiating your salary. You can also search for salary information by job.
Careers New Zealand

Inside Careers

Inside Careers specialises in finance careers in the UK. You’ll find information on the following career sectors: actuaries, insurance, pensions, investment banking, chartered accountancy, tax and management consultancy
Inside Careers

Prospects

Prospects specialises in advice for UK university students and graduates. Much of the information is relevant to NZ students.
Prospects