Prerequisites: A solid understanding of financial statements and valuation models is essential. Admission is by permission only and interested students should send a resume and a cover letter to the instructor at vbosiljevac@law.harvard.edu. The cover letter should detail the applicant’s motivation for enrolling in the course and their experience with financial statements, valuation, and financial modeling. For applications received after November 15 decisions will be made on a rolling basis. Cross-registrants are highly encouraged to apply – the deadline for them is January 20.

Exam Type: No Exam

This workshop-style course is designed for students eager to deepen their understanding and knowledge of applied finance concepts, with a focus on equity investments in public and private markets.

Through a combination of case studies, independent investment theses and class discussions, students will explore investment strategies and methodologies commonly used by hedge funds and private equity firms.

In the first part of the class, we will examine how evolving tools and methodologies, including emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, are influencing investment practices and decision-making in today’s dynamic financial landscape. Case studies will span various industries—such as technology, healthcare, consumer goods, retail, and industrials—and focus primarily on the U.S. market, with some consideration of global perspectives.

After learning various investment methodologies, students will work in pairs to develop and present two detailed investment theses within their chosen industries. These theses will be refined through multiple one-on-one feedback sessions with the instructor and peer comments in class discussions.

For some classes, guest speakers from the finance industry may be invited. Active class participation is required.

Note: This course will meet on the following dates:

• 1st session block (Jan 27, Jan 28, Feb 3, and Feb 4)
• 2nd session block (March 3, March 4, March 10, and March 11)
• 3rd session block (Apr 14, Apr 15, Apr 21, and Apr 22)