Jim Foorman : Courses and Seminars
Evolving Regulation of Financial Institutions and Markets
LAWS 94812
In reaction to the recent market and financial institutions crisis, Congress enacted the Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, which mandates broad changes to the regulation of financial institutions. The Act requires numerous regulatory agencies to promulgate hundreds of new rules—a process that is currently underway. This seminar will consider certain areas addressed by the legislation and the ensuing rule-making process with particular attention to the causes of the crisis and its impact on the financial system. We will critically assess whether these measures are likely to promote the stated goals of the legislators, as well as the merits and feasibility of those goals. To that end, students will form groups concentrating on topics of interest leading to student oral reports and papers. No prior courses are required. The Lecturer will provide basic background information concerning the structure and regulation of financial institutions and the features of key transactional arrangements (such as mortgage-backed securities and derivatives). The reading will be eclectic, and will include academic commentary on the subject, official reports on aspects of the crisis and, of course, portions of the legislation and proposed regulation.
Grades will be based on two papers (seven to ten pages each) and oral reports on selected topics.
Students wishing to earn three credits must extend one of the papers to 15-20 pages.
Space is limited.
Spring 2013
Jim Foorman
