Course Overview & Introduction to OLS

This lecture provides an overview of the FIN-403 Econometrics course at EPFL, focusing on standard econometric models like Ordinary Least Squares (OLS). The instructor emphasizes the practical application of econometric methods in economic and financial contexts, covering topics such as instrumental variables, maximum likelihood estimation, and time series models. Students will learn to interpret results and understand the limitations of these methods. The course aims to equip students with the necessary tools for empirical finance, real estate finance, and banking. Practical assignments, graded exams, and recommended textbooks are part of the course structure.