A clear, jargon-free introduction to a complex and demanding subject, "Finance: The Basics" is the ultimate guide for those encountering this broad topic for the first time. With particular focus on the practical dimension of financial tools, instruments and markets, this user-friendly text provides the reader with a solid working knowledge of the key drivers of the financial marketplace, ensuring that the concepts learnt can be easily applied and related to daily activities, the financial press and the financial markets. Authoritative yet accessible, "Finance: The Basics" is ideal for first year undergraduates with no previous exposure to financial concepts, as well as those looking for simple yet comprehensive explanations of the primary elements of the topic.