Christopher Viney brings to this book a wealth of industry experience and academic knowledge associated with the international financial markets. His appreciation of the nature of both the theoretic and the applied functions and operations of the global financial system is reflected in the clear and interesting presentation of issues in such a way that the reader is motivated to learn.

This text benefits from Chris’s extensive industry experience, plus an academic career in which he has been awarded many teaching and learning awards. Prior to moving into academia Chris had spent twenty-seven years in the commercial banking industry in the areas of retail banking, corporate lending, risk management, personnel, property, policy and administration.

His academic career included appointments at Monash University and Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia. He has taught in the areas of financial markets, financial institutions management, corporate finance, treasury management and personal financial planning. Chris has also taught in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and New Zealand. He has also received university awards for contributions to the internationalisation of teaching and learning programs.

As the director of the finance international study programs, first at Monash University and then at Deakin University, Chris has taken select groups of students overseas as part of their tertiary studies. The programs visited important financial institutions and markets, multinational corporations, multi-lateral organizations and regulators within financial centres around the world. Senior representatives from a wide range of organisations talked to the students about different aspects of finance.

Chris has particular research interests in the capital markets, operational risk management, bureau de change, money laundering and education and training. He has con ducted research projects within government and the finance industry. A number of recommendations emanating from reports to these organisations have had direct influence in the determination of government legislative changes and on important operational practices with in the financial system.

Following the passing of Michael McGrath with the first edition of the text, Chris has guided the evolution of future editions of the book and it has now become a principal learning and reference source for undergraduate students, postgraduate students and industry practitioners alike.