Algorithmic Trading

Algorithmic Trading
Algorithmic Trading

Algorithmic trading is a method of executing orders using automated pre-programmed trading instructions accounting for variables such as time, price, and volume. Nowdays around 92% of trading is performed by trading algorithms rather than humans. This type of trading attempts to leverage the speed and computational resources of computers. Algorithmic trading has been gaining traction with both retail and institutional traders. It is widely used by investments banks and funds in order to spread out the execution of a larger order or perform trades too fast for human traders to react to. 

Professor, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Department of Economics

Higher education and pros with relevant interests and work experience in marketing analytics are considered as prospective candidates. However, students or high school graduates can also attend the course.

The programme addresses the development and implementation of investment strategies through the systematic study and technical analysis of price charts of financial products. At a theoretical level, the purpose of the programme is to briefly study the markets for trading financial products such as the capital market, the derivatives market and the over-the-counter market. In this theoretical framework we present the Effective Purchasing Hypothesis and the fundamental CAPM model. We study mathematical pricing models for derivative financial products such as the Diamond Model and the Black Scholes equation. In addition, we present Metric elements of Fundamental Analysis, which shape the evaluation image of financial products and their intrinsic value.

Module 1 – Technical Analysis and Theoretical Foundation of Investment Strategies

Lesson 1&2: Investment Instruments and Markets & Derivative Financial Products 

A first introductory approach to the notion of investing and the basic types of markets. An introductory approach is also taken to derivative financial products and the corresponding markets.

Module 2 - Fundamental and Technical Analysis

Lesson 1&2: Fundamental Analysis and Technical Analysis

In this section we describe stocks as a financial product of regulated markets. We present important "metrics", elements of the so-called Fundamental Analysis, that shape the evaluation image of the price of a share. We make a special reference to the Gordon Model. Also, we make use of the Capital Asset Pricing Model and the beta coefficient, in order to estimate the capital cost and present alternative methods for calculating the intrinsic share price. We analyze the Efficient Market Hypothesis and we introduce the concept of Technical Analysis. Finally, we present a fundamental element of the theory of Technical Analysis, that is the Theory of Dow.

Module 3 - Technical Analysis Charts

Lesson 1,2&3: Chart Description, Candle Charts and Predictions with Candle Patterns

In this section we present the basic charts of Technical Analysis, such as Bar Charts and Line Charts. Furthermore, we present a special category of charts, Candle Charts. In particular we present and analyze candle charts with one candle, two candles and three candles. Special prediction techniques related to candle patterns are also presented.

Module 4 - Basic Concepts of Technical Analysis

Lesson 1,2,3&4: Support and Resistance, Price Trends, Double Peak/Bottom Shape and Bullish Reversal Shape - Head and Shoulder

In this section, we present special issues and schemes of technical analysis such as support and resistance levels, uptrends, Double Peak / Bottom shapes, and the “Head and Shoulder” shape.

In each module the elearner will have to take and submit electronically the corresponding tests, according to the timetable given by the instructor. The grading scale ranges from 0 to 100%. 
The Training Certificate is awarded when the learner receives an average grade higher than 50%.  

Online and distance training learning at National and Kapodistrian University of Athens offers a new way of combining innovative learning and training techniques with interaction with your tutor and fellow trainees from around the world.

The e-learning course is implemented via a user-friendly educational platform adjusted to the Distance Learning Principles. Courses are structured as weekly online meetings; interaction with the course tutor and other trainees takes place in a digital learning environment. The courses are designed to fit around your schedule; you access the course whenever it is convenient for you, however within the given deadlines.

The whole world becomes your classroom as e-learning can be done on laptops, tablets and phones as a very mobile method. Learning can be done on the train, on a plane or even during your trip to Greece!

The educational platform is a portal that offers access to electronic educational material based on modern distance learning technologies. The computer based nature of training means new technology is being introduced all the time to help trainees engage and learn in a tailored way that will meet their needs. E-learners have access to the educational platform with their personal code number in order to browse all relevant training material and interact with their instructors.

Moreover, an online communication system through own personal e-mail account is available in order to make the process easier and more interactive. Trainees can contact directly their tutors or the administration office of the course and share any concerns or anxieties related to the course in order to make the most of their experience.

Every week e-learners are provided with the relevant material, delivered either in the form of video-lectures, text notes and relevant presentations or as a combination of them. The educational material of the course is uploaded gradually, per educational unit. During the course, important info for the smooth conduct of the educational process, such as timetables for the submission of the exercises are announced on the Announcement section of the platform.

For successful completion of the course the e-learner should have fulfill her/his academic obligations, meaning should have submitted all corresponding assessment exercises and have achieved at least an average of 50% grade in the corresponding tests for each module. The score scale ranges from 0 to 100%. Finally, if the total score on one or more lessons of the course does not exceed 50%, trainees can ask for reassessment.

During the course trainees will be attending a training experience designed by academics and lecturers from the National University of Athens as well as from other Universities, Research Institutes and Cultural organizations around Greece.

Interactivity, flexibility and our long tradition guarantee that learning with us offers a successful and rewarding experience. Finally, access to a large variety of material and online resources available in each unit aims to excite your curiosity and guide you in exploring further your favourite topic. Part of the online material can be downloaded providing the chance to quickly refresh your memory after the completion of the course.

When will I receive the Certificate?

The Certificate will be sent to you electronically 30 working days upon completion, if you have no remaining academic or financial obligations. The Certificate will be also sent to you through traditional post services. Upon request the Certificate can be sent with the use of courier services. In this case, the relative cost should be covered by your side.