Finance and insurance

General goals: In this course students will learn to formulate models to tackle relevant finance and insurance problems using several mathematical and statistical tools mostly related to optimization theory. They will also learn to use, understand, and develop computational tools suitable for the solution of the models proposed. Specific goals: - At the end of the course, students will have a sound knowledge of portfolio selection theory and of the main algorithms used to solve optimization problems. They will also know the main optimization models used in finance and insurance applications. - This course will enable students to address several practical problems in finance and insurance with the aid of quantitative models and with the use of computational tools for their solution - After seeing a careful analysis of the critical issues related to the models presented in the course, the students will be aware of the relations between models and real problems to which they are applied and will be able to identify the essential elements that should be used in a model. - The students have to deliver a written report on a project and to orally describe some of the topics presented in the course to pass the exam. They will therefore acquire the capability to communicate their knowledge in a suitable way. - Having conducted autonomous researches for the projects required for the course, with possible support from the teacher when necessary, students will be subsequently capable to deepen and continue the studies in this field.