This course provides an introduction to the theory and practice of institutional investment management, including asset allocation and manager selection across public and private equity, absolute return, real assets, and fixed income. The course is taught by the CIO of Stanford's endowment, along with other members of the investment team, and takes the perspective of an institution with a long-term investment horizon. We introduce and apply a framework for assessing investment strategies and investment firms. Students put theory into practice with guest speakers from leading investment firms, including partners at venture capital firms, real estate partnerships, and hedge funds. Enrollment is capped at ECON 20. All majors are welcome. To apply please send a one to two paragraph statement of interest and an unofficial transcript to econ184@ smc.stanford.edu by December 7, 2025. Econ 1 and Econ ECON 102A, Stats ECON 60, or equivalent courses recommended and may be taken concurrently. Lunch will be provided for each Monday lecture.
4 units · Letter (ABCD/NP)
This course provides an introduction to the theory and practice of institutional investment management, including asset allocation and manager selection across public and private equity, absolute return, real assets, and fixed income. The course is taught by the CIO of Stanford's endowment, along with other members of the investment team, and takes the perspective of an institution with a long-term investment horizon. We introduce and apply a framework for assessing investment strategies and investment firms. Students put theory into practice with guest speakers from leading investment firms, including partners at venture capital firms, real estate partnerships, and hedge funds. Enrollment is capped at 20. All majors are welcome. To apply please send a one to two paragraph statement of interest and an unofficial transcript to econ184@ smc.stanford.edu by December 7, 2025. Econ 1 and Econ 102A, Stats 60, or equivalent courses recommended and may be taken concurrently. Lunch will be provided for each Monday lecture.
Offered in Winter 2026 at Stanford University.