Overview

Learners will be able to analyze option contracts, evaluate pricing drivers, apply trade lifecycle controls, assess client onboarding risk, and interpret ISDA documentation used in global derivatives markets. They will also be able to explain market infrastructure, settlement processes, and reference data frameworks that support derivatives trading operations. This course provides a comprehensive, end-to-end understanding of derivatives, options, swaps, and post-trade processes as used in investment banking and capital markets. Starting with the fundamentals of put and call options, learners progressively build expertise in option pricing, moneyness, and trade economics before advancing into trade lifecycle management, client onboarding, due diligence, and regulatory controls. The course then deepens into the legal and operational backbone of OTC derivatives through detailed coverage of ISDA agreements, credit support mechanisms, default management, and industry best practices. What makes this course unique is its strong integration of front-office concepts with middle- and back-office realities. Learners gain practical exposure to real-world workflows, documentation, and risk frameworks used by banks, asset managers, and financial institutions. By the end of the course, learners are equipped with job-relevant knowledge that bridges theory, regulation, and operational execution in modern derivatives markets.

Syllabus

Foundations of Options Trading

This module introduces the fundamental concepts of options trading, including put and call options, payoff structures, moneyness, intrinsic value, and time value, forming the conceptual foundation for derivatives in investment banking.

Option Pricing and Trade Lifecycle

This module explores the drivers of option pricing, settlement mechanics, trade economics, and the role of equity characteristics in derivatives valuation and lifecycle management.

Trade Lifecycle Controls (TLC)

This module provides a comprehensive view of the end-to-end trade lifecycle, emphasizing operational controls, confirmations, reconciliations, and settlement processes in financial markets.

Client Onboarding, Risk & Due Diligence

This module examines regulatory-driven client onboarding, customer acceptance policies, risk categorization, customer identification procedures, and due diligence frameworks.

Due Diligence Case Study

This module applies onboarding and due diligence concepts through practical case studies, reinforcing risk-based decision-making and documentation standards.

ISDA Framework and Legal Structure

This module introduces the ISDA framework, focusing on legal documentation, contractual obligations, default events, termination rights, and credit support mechanisms in OTC derivatives.

ISDA Documentation and Best Practices

This module focuses on ISDA documentation flow, practical application, governance, and industry best practices that support legal certainty and risk management.

Market Infrastructure, Data & Settlement

This module covers market infrastructure components, margining, defaults, financial messaging systems, reference data management, and settlement operations.