(FALL 2009)

A required course in the Certificate Program in Investor Relations.
An overview of the investment markets, this course examines the menu of securities available in today's market and the attributes of the various types of securities. It will also examine the purpose of capital markets, capitalization structure, how domestic and global securities markets work, the trend toward globalization of the capital markets, the organized exchanges for stocks and bonds and securities trading, the mechanics of the buy-side/ sell-side, the role of investment bankers and brokers, derivatives, and other related topics. Recommended prerequisite: Introduction to Accounting, Pre-MBA Accounting or related experience. See enrollment confirmation for login information.

Adam Bergman, CFA , B.S. in commerce, served as an investor relations officer for more than five years, most recently for Advance Auto Parts (from 2005-2007) as vice president of investor & media relations. There he was responsible for all aspects of the company's investor and media relations programs, including communications with investors, financial analysts, media outlets and news professionals. He also served as a member of Advance's Leadership Team, participating in the formulation, development and communication of the company's long-term strategic plan. Prior to joining Advance, Bergman worked for Dollar Tree Stores, Inc. from 2001 to 2005, most recently as director of investor relations; research analyst for Wilbanks, Smith & Thomas Asset Management from 2000 to 2001; and research analyst for Scott & Stringfellow (now BB&T Capital Markets) from 1996 to 2000. In 2007, he re-joined Scott & Stringfellow's CHOICE Asset Management as a research analyst. CHOICE manages more than $2 billion for Scott & Stringfellow clients, and also sub-advises two mutual funds for BB&T Asset Management.