Contemporary Issues in Banking and Finance
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-10-07 | - |
Program Overview
Contemporary Issues in Banking and Finance
Overview
This in-person programme offers an exceptional learning experience, combining interactive small-group sessions with your peers in the beautiful, historic setting of St Andrews, home to our world-class University. Taught by our experts, you will benefit from lectures, interactive discussions, and real-world case studies. This course equips finance professionals with strategic insights and practical tools to navigate the rapidly evolving financial landscape and drive innovation in their organisations.
Dates
- 7 to 9 October 2025
Duration
- Three days
School
- Business School
- Executive Education
Fees
- General: £3,300
- University of St Andrews alumni: £1,650
Learning Experience
This course explores critical topics such as:
- Regulatory oversight and risk management
- Competitive dynamics
- The impact of generative AI in banking
- Challenges in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing
- Corporate innovation
- Systemic risk and the influence of geopolitics on global finance
Indicative Course Content
Day One
Welcome and Course Overview
- Introduction by the Dean of the Business School
- Overview of course objectives and structure
Contemporary Overview of Banking
- Current landscape and trends in the banking sector
- Impact of recent economic events and policy changes
Bank Oversight and Risk Management
- Regulatory frameworks and compliance
- Managing operational, credit, and market risks
- Case studies on regulatory challenges and risk mitigation
Day Two
Generative AI in Banking
- Overview of AI technologies and applications in finance
- Enhancing customer service, fraud detection, and decision-making
- Ethical considerations and risks of AI adoption
Bank Competition and Corporate Innovation
- The evolving competitive landscape
- Role of fintech and challenger banks
- Strategies for fostering innovation within traditional banking models
Day Three
Challenges in ESG
- Integrating ESG factors into investment strategies
- Regulatory expectations and reporting standards
- Managing ESG risks and opportunities
Systemic Risk and Financial Stability
- Understanding systemic risk and its implications
- Lessons from financial crises
- Role of central banks and international co-operation
Geopolitics and Global Finance
- Impact of geopolitical events on financial markets
- Managing geopolitical risk in investment and banking
- Case studies on geopolitical disruptions
Course Wrap-up and Key Takeaways
- Final discussion and reflection on learning outcomes
- Networking and next steps
Who is it for?
This course is designed for professionals who are shaping the future of finance, providing them with the knowledge and skills to navigate a rapidly evolving landscape. This includes:
- Leaders in financial institutions
- Mid- and senior-level executives and heads of departments
- Regulators and central bank officials
- Compliance officers
- Risk managers
- Strategic decision-makers
Benefits for Your Organisation
Contemporary Issues in Banking and Finance is a strategic investment in your team and your organisation's future.
Key benefits:
- Enhanced risk management: Develop a sophisticated understanding of risk management frameworks to identify and mitigate potential threats, reduce financial losses, and improve regulatory compliance
- Strategic foresight: Gain a deep understanding of the forces shaping the financial industry, including technological advancements, regulatory changes, and geopolitical risks, to make informed strategic decisions
- Agility and adaptability: Equip your team to navigate disruption, embrace new technologies, and respond effectively to market changes in a rapidly evolving industry
- Competitive edge: Foster a culture of innovation and provide your team with the tools and insights to implement cutting-edge strategies and maintain a competitive advantage
- ESG integration: Effectively integrate ESG considerations into operations and investment strategies, enhancing reputation, reducing risks, and attracting investors and customers who value sustainability
Course Leader
John Wilson, Professor of Banking and Finance and Head of the Department of Finance at the University of St Andrews Business School
Why University of St Andrews Business School?
Ranked as one of the UK's leading universities, the University of St Andrews is renowned for its teaching excellence. Our Business School brings together leading global academics and practitioners across management, finance, and economics.
In The Guardian's University Guide 2025 UK rankings we are proud to be:
- Number one in Business and Management
- Number two in Economics
Our Executive Education experience blends cutting-edge research, academic rigour, and global perspective. Inspiring transformative thinking and leadership, this new course will allow you to innovate and excel in your field.
University of St. Andrews
Overview:
The University of St. Andrews is Scotland's first university, established in 1413. It is renowned for its academic excellence, particularly in postgraduate studies, and consistently ranks among the top universities in the UK.
Services Offered:
The university provides a comprehensive range of services for students, including:
MySaint:
A student portal for accessing various resources and information.Moodle:
An online learning platform for course materials and communication.Library:
A well-equipped library with extensive resources and study spaces.MMS:
A student support system for managing academic and personal matters.Accommodation:
On-campus housing options for students.Fees and Funding:
Information on tuition fees and financial aid opportunities.Scholarships:
Various scholarships available for eligible students.Student Life and Campus Experience:
The university offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience, characterized by:
Close-knit community:
A strong sense of belonging fostered by the small town setting.Academically stimulating environment:
Opportunities for intellectual growth and engagement.Active research:
Involvement in cutting-edge research projects.International community:
A diverse student body from around the world.Numerous extracurricular activities:
Opportunities for social interaction and personal development.Key Reasons to Study There:
Top-ranked university:
Consistently ranked among the best in the UK.World-leading research:
Access to cutting-edge research facilities and resources.Excellent postgraduate programs:
A wide range of taught Masters degrees and online courses.Strong academic reputation:
A prestigious institution with a long history of academic excellence.Supportive and welcoming community:
A close-knit environment that fosters a sense of belonging.Academic Programs:
The university offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
