Hendrik S. Houthakker – författare

Provides a comprehensive introduction to the subject of financial markets. Covers markets in central trading places like the New York Stock Exchange and the Chicago Board of Trade, and markets in non-central trading such as that in government bonds, foreign currencies, and over-the-counter stocks. Includes unique analyses of pricing of options and features, especially futures in Eurodollars.This is the comprehensive introduction to financial markets from an economic perspective. It assumes a basic understanding of economics. The authors cover both markets that trade in central locations like the New York Stock Exchange and the Chicago Board of Trade, and also markets that trade by phone , computer terminal, etc., like bonds, foreign currency and securities traded on over-the-counter market. Also included are options and future markets, and the authors present and unique way of analysing the prices of these instruments, especially the pricing of futures in Eurodollars.

This book puts economics to work on the daily problems faced by investors, traders, speculators and brokers as they wrestle with increasingly complex financial markets. Drawing on data direct from the financial behavior of households, corporations, and governments, through to the prices of individual securities, the authors show how accessible but rigorous economics can help the players make sense of the hour-by-hour reality of the way financial markets move. Many of the twists and turns that might seem random at first sight are, they contend, rational and often predictable. But inefficiencies do exist, and the authors also demonstrate how these can become unique profit opportunities. By bringing together information on the daily workings of financial markets with the concepts and tools of economics, Houthakker and Williamson have provided a valuable resource for practitioners and students alike.