This course provides a high-level introduction to two rapidly developing technologies: artificial intelligence and blockchain. Artificial intelligence, in particular machine learning and natural language processing algorithms, has been adopted by a variety of real-world FinTech companies that build their business based on credit scoring, fraud detection, real-estate valuation, portfolio management, and quantitative trading. Blockchain technology is the cornerstone of cryptocurrencies, smart contracts, and decentralized finance, a rising industry with great potential to disrupt the future of finance. 

This course is designed for those who are interested in the inner workings of the technologies, as well as their applications in the FinTech industry. Specifically, it places emphases on the philosophy and intuition behind these technologies, as well as their promises and perils, but not on the technical details. Students are expected to have completed MBA core courses before taking this course. The coding component is optional. Prior coding experience is not required. 

Students are expected to have completed MBA core courses before taking this course

There is no required text for this course. The provided lecture notes and cases are self-contained. 

Grades will be determined by 4 homework assignments (40%), participation and professionalism (10%), and a final group project (50%). You are encouraged to work with a group of other students (max size 4) but you must turn in individual write-ups in your own words and make it clear who your teammates are. Homework assignments are due each class and should have a clear and professional presentation. The take-home final exam is again a group project.