August 18, 2009

Contact:
Renee DeGross Valdes, 404-413-1353
University Relations

Georgia State Law lunch series to school its students in financial literacy

ATLANTA — Ever wonder about the relationship between bond prices and interest rates? The language of business often seems confusing and complicated. That’s why Georgia State University College of Law plans to school its students in financial literacy during a new luncheon series designed to help guide them through today’s headlines.

The series will meet the first and third Thursday of each month, beginning August 20 from 11:50 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Room 170 in the College of Law. It’s open to all students and faculty in law, business and economics. Media is also welcome to attend. Lunch will be served.

“We’re trying to expose law students to enough financial literacy so they’re not like deer in the headlights when they hear these terms,” said Basil Mattingly, a Georgia State associate professor of law. “This series will help students gain a better understanding of concepts relevant in today’s world, give them context in courses they take, and discuss issues beyond the classroom.”

Luncheon series discussion topics are as follows:

Aug. 20 –So you didn’t go to business school: financial concepts you still need to know
Sept. 3 – Bulls, bears and bonds – oh my! Get “street” smart on the stock market
Sept. 17 – Deciphering debt: the hitchhiker’s guide to the red ink
Oct. 1 – Being Warren Buffet: reading financial statements
Oct. 14 – Lessons from Madoff: financial fraud and Ponzi schemes [Note: this session is Wednesday]
Nov. 5 – Fannie, Freddie and the Fed
Nov. 19 – Digging through the dirt: the real estate bubble

What: Understanding today’s financial world: the lunch series you cannot afford to miss

When: First/third Thursdays from Aug. 20 to Nov. 19

Where: Georgia State College of Law room 170