Assuming a basic grounding in economic principles and a familiarity with the IS/LM model, this book is ideally suited for use on a range of one and two semester courses in financial economics and money banking and finance courses on economics and business finance degrees. Also suitable for MA level.This book is specifically written to meet the needs of students who requires a rigorous grounding in financial economics theory, combined with institutional and policy discussion relevant to the 'real world' of economics of contemporary Europe. This new edition has greater emphasis on international issues affecting financial markets whilst retaining its strong unifying theoretical perspective.and a unique comparative survey of financial systems in the UK, Germany, France, Italy and the USA. Thoroughly updated to incorporate recent developments in this discipline, this edition promises to be the best yet.