May 24, 2024 - Finance, Tech & Analytics Career Resources

What is Corporate Finance: Objectives, Functions and Understanding

Posted on May 24, 2024July 24, 2024 by Imarticus Learning

A well-established business or organisation requires funds at every stage of development. Finance management becomes crucial for carrying out multiple activities, projects and also operations to run the business.

Businesses need to ensure that the required funds are available at every stage of the organisation’s development. Finance management and corporate finance become so crucial because the organisation will require funds to develop its infrastructure as proposed and also establish machinery and plants.

In this case, the first question is what is corporate finance and how it can be beneficial for a career in finance. Also, to learn all the corporate finance topics and gain a foundational grasp of corporate finance analysis, you can explore the Post Graduate Financial Analysis Program by Imarticus.

What is Corporate Finance?

Corporate finance plays a key role in funding as well as the actions that management carries out to develop a valuable organisation. The corporate finance definition explains it as the development of the capital structure of the company to maximise resource utilisation. Corporate finance’s main purpose is to keep a balance between profitability and the risk involved with the invested capital.

Objectives of Corporate Finance

The assurance of all the aspects of finance required to carry out organisational actions towards creating stockholder value become the fundamental objectives of corporate finance.

The corporate finance concept of creating a plan for organisational profitability through pricing, revenue management and cost control aids the overall growth of the business. However, the key objectives include:

Market Value Enhancement

The fundamentals of corporate finance involve the development of strategic actions that are aimed at increasing the overall value of the company in the market. This can be achieved by proper financial planning and effective implementation of multiple strategies and initiatives.

These strategic efforts can be executed through well-informed cost control, high-value sales and proper revenue management.

Risk Management

The development of strategies that demonstrate or help in managing, identifying and evaluating financial risk comes under risk management. These factors when dealt with proper strategies and evaluation, can reduce financial risk for the organisation in the long run.

Risk management is one of the essential objectives of corporate finance as it is necessary to ensure the survival of the organisation over an extended period.

Capital Allocation

This is considered to be the central pillar that involves raising the capital at an optimal level. As financing can take place involving either or in some cases both of the sources- debt as well as equity part of an organisation.

For any organisation to run efficiently, it is crucial to have a balance between the two funding sources of debt and equity. Professionals who deal with corporate finance have the responsibility of developing the capital structure of the organisation.

Maximising Shareholder Wealth

This involves the appropriate development of financial strategies that aim at increasing the wealth of shareholders of the organisation. The overall wealth of the shareholder can be maximised through capital budgeting. Capital budgeting involves optimum resource utilisation to maximise the wealth of shareholders of the organisation.

Functions of Corporate Finance

There are certain essential functions that are utilised in corporate finance to mitigate the factor of risk faced by organisations. These functions of corporate finance serve to analyse as well as resolve financial difficulties and enhance the profitability of the corporation.

These functions of corporate finance act as a guide for both short-term and long-term investment decisions of the organisation.

However, these functions are classified under two broad categories which are:

Traditional Approach
Modern Approach

The traditional approach was mainly focused on earning more profits or in other words, these finance functions were restricted to raising funds. The traditional approach is heavily dependent on raising funds to meet the organisation’s financial needs.

Whereas, the modern approach not only focuses on acquisition funds, but also their effective and efficient utilisation and allocation. The modern approach deals with a more analytical path of observing the financial difficulties of an organisation.

The modern approach to corporate finance can be divided into four main functions or decisions and here are the following:

Capital Budgeting

Capital budgeting decisions or investment decisions are primarily concerned with long-term profitable opportunities with respect to financial resources. Capital budgeting decisions point out the selection of assets in which the corporation can invest for the long term.

These long-term assets are those which affect the corporation’s operations beyond a single-year period.

It includes the allowance of financial resources to the properly predicted activities of the organisation. Capital budgeting decisions in corporate finance are also about the determination of financial resource requirements.

This decision provides the proper coordination, planning and control of the organisation’s capital expenditure.

Capital Structure Management

Capital structure management refers to the development of an ideal financing mix or leverage. At first, the organisation must decide which assets must be selected for future investment and the source of finance.

There are two primary sources of funds for an organisation which are equity and debt. So, the organisation’s capital structure must be built optimally.

Capital structure decides how much debt and equity should be raised to provide the finance to carry out business actions. This financing mix is decided on the basis of the cost of equity funds and the capital of debt.

Dividend Distribution

It is considered to be one of the major financial decisions of corporate finance. Dividend distribution refers to rewarding the owner of the corporation. Along with the owner the shareholders also get rewarded for investing their money in the organisation.

Dividend distribution avails two alternate paths for dealing with profit. The first option can be the distribution of profits to its shareholders in the form of dividends. Otherwise, they can be retained in the organisation which is also known as ploughing back of profits.

Key Concepts and Understandings

Corporate finance covers a wide range of business activities which includes dividend decisions, financing decisions and also capital investment decisions.

The following points are some key concepts and understandings in corporate finance, so let us delve into each of them:

Cost of Capital

This simply refers to the rate of return which is necessary to compensate for the risk of investing in an organisation. The cost of capital influences the capital structure in terms of the evaluation of investment projects of the organisation.

Considering the cost of capital benefits in the determination of the optimal financing mix to minimise overall company expenditure.

Financial Statement Analysis

The investor always demand an analysis of the proposed organisation’s financial statement before they invest. Financial statement includes cash flow statement, income statements and even balance sheets for investment evaluation purposes.

This evaluation provides the performance as well as the position of the organisation in the market of business. Certain tools and techniques are used in financial statement analysis which involves- trend analysis and cash flow analysis.

The financial analysis demonstrates the current positioning of the organisation. It is so crucial because it provides insights into the organisations’ financial health. Financial statement analysis of organisations is essential for creditors and investors.

Time Value of Money

This is the fundamental concept of finance or corporate finance to be precise as the value of money gets affected over time. These changes in values are caused due to factors like inflation and interest rates.

The common calculation of the time value of money involves the organisation’s current value, perpetuities, annuities and future value.

TVM is considered so crucial in corporate finance for making better financial decisions. These financial decisions involve the evaluation of financial options, investment appraisal and capital budgeting of the respective organisation.

Financial Markets and Institution

Financial markets and institutions are platforms in corporate finance where businesses, government bodies, and individuals can buy and sell financial assets. It becomes crucial for a corporation to raise their required capital, and try to surplus the investment.

Although this profit-building strategies are developed with good management of all the risks related to the investment.

These institutions are prime platforms for organisations such as banks, brokerage companies, insurance firms and investment banks to facilitate valuable financial services.

The assessment of the overall market economics helps to make organisations informed financial decisions that benefit their growth.

Final Words

An organisation’s entire trajectory gets shepherded through proper understanding and efficient utilisation of corporate finance strategies. Starting with better risk management capabilities and intricate interplay of financial decisions is what corporate finance is all about.

Corporate finance deals with all the financial problems of an organisation. All organisation always seeks to build an exceptional financial analyst to strengthen their capital structure and promote growth. In case you wish to upskill your understanding of financial analysis.

You can read our blogs on essential skills to build a successful career in finance.If you hold a keen interest towards financial analysis, the Imarticus Learning Post Graduate Financial Analysis Programme can help you to transform your professional career. This course from Imarticus Learning shall also prepare keen learners like you for CFA L1 jobs.

FAQ’s

Does corporate finance have any contribution in maximising the value of shareholders?

Corporate finance and strategy aim to develop and optimise all financial decisions. Corporations play an important role in resource allocation for the benefit of the shareholder and the organisation.

Why is financial planning so important in the financial decisions of corporations?

Financial planning under corporate finance requires the development of budgets, clear objectives and predicting the future financial needs of the organisation.

What is the role of debt markets in corporate finance?

Organisations raise capital to meet multiple financial obligations and manage cash flow through debt markets which facilitates capital through loans and bonds.

Explain the importance of comparable company analysis (CCA).

The CCA is done for the value assessment of one organisation with another one that exists in a similar publicly traded domain.

What Is Asset Management – Types, How it works, roles and responsibilities

Posted on May 24, 2024August 17, 2024 by Imarticus Learning

The question “what is asset management” is a common query among finance professionals and investors. With this article, we aim to break down what is asset management, elucidating its definition, various types, key functions, and the roles and responsibilities involved.

By the end of this article, you’ll have a firm grasp of what asset management entails and its significance in the financial landscape.

What is Asset Management?

Asset management involves the systematic process of developing, operating, maintaining, and selling assets in a cost-effective manner. Thus, a simple answer to “what is asset management“ is the maximisation of the value of an investment over time while minimising risk. This process is managed by asset management companies (AMCs). The functions of AMC oganisations is to utilise their expertise to manage investments on behalf of their clients, including individuals, corporations, and institutions.

To fully grasp what is asset management, it’s essential to understand the various types of assets involved and the methodologies used to manage them. Assets can range from physical assets like real estate and machinery to financial assets such as stocks, bonds, and other securities. Effective asset management requires a blend of strategic planning, detailed financial analysis, and risk management.

Types of Assets

To understand asset management meaning, we must first know about the different types of assets. Assets can be broadly categorized into two types:

Tangible Assets: These are physical items that hold value, such as real estate, machinery, vehicles, and equipment. Managing these assets involves maintaining them in good condition, ensuring their efficient use, and planning for their eventual replacement or disposal.
Intangible Assets: These include non-physical items like stocks, bonds, patents, trademarks, and intellectual property. The management of these assets focuses on maximizing their financial performance and protecting their value over time.

How Asset Management Works

What is asset management and the asset management process involves several key steps to understand:

Asset management is the methodology of maximising wealth by the acquisition, maintainence and trading of assets that have the potential to grow in value in the upcoming future and benefit from it. Asset management fundamentally focuses on increasing the ROI of an asset.

The asset management process includes the following steps:

Asset Identification and Evaluation: Identifying potential investment opportunities and evaluating their expected returns and risks.
Acquisition: Purchasing the selected assets based on thorough analysis and strategic alignment with investment goals.
Management and Maintenance: Regularly monitoring and maintaining the assets to ensure they continue to perform optimally. This can involve everything from routine maintenance of physical assets to periodic review and rebalancing of investment portfolios. Not monitoring and maintenance of assets will lead to the depreciation of assets.
Performance Monitoring: Continuously tracking the performance of assets to ensure they meet expected benchmarks and making adjustments as necessary.
Disposition: Selling or disposing of assets when they no longer meet the investment criteria or when they have reached their maximum value potential.

Types of Asset Management

There are as many types of asset management out there as there are types of assets. Here are ten types of asset management as examples:

Real Estate Management: This might manage a portfolio of rental properties, ensuring they are well-maintained, rented to reliable tenants, and generating a steady income stream. The AMC would also handle the buying and selling of properties to optimize the portfolio’s performance.
Investment Portfolio Management: This involves managing a collection of financial assets such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. The AMC would develop an investment strategy, select appropriate assets, and continuously monitor and adjust the portfolio to achieve the client’s financial goals.
Enterprise Asset Management (EAM): This refers to managing a company’s physical assets such as machinery, equipment, vehicles, and infrastructure. It involves ensuring optimal performance, reducing downtime, extending the lifecycle of assets, and minimizing costs through effective maintenance and management practices.
Hotel Asset Management: This niche involves overseeing the financial performance of hotels and resorts, maximizing revenue and profitability through strategic decision-making, operational efficiency, and guest satisfaction.
Hedge Fund Asset Management: This involves managing complex investment strategies that employ leverage, derivatives, and other sophisticated financial instruments to generate high returns, often with higher risk profiles.
Private Equity Asset Management: This focuses on investing in private companies not listed on public exchanges, with the goal of acquiring ownership stakes, improving company performance, and ultimately realizing a profit through sale or IPO.
Venture Capital Asset Management: Similar to private equity, this involves investing in early-stage companies with high growth potential, often in technology or innovation-driven sectors. Venture capital firms provide funding and expertise to help startups scale and achieve success.
Mutual Fund Asset Management: This involves managing pooled investment vehicles that offer investors exposure to diversified portfolios of stocks, bonds, or other assets. Mutual fund managers make investment decisions on behalf of fund shareholders, aiming to achieve the fund’s stated objectives.
Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) Asset Management: Similar to mutual funds, ETFs are traded on stock exchanges and offer investors exposure to diversified portfolios. However, ETFs are passively managed, tracking a specific index or benchmark, which typically results in lower fees compared to actively managed funds.
Fixed Income Asset Management: This involves managing portfolios of debt securities, such as bonds and treasury bills.

Asset Management Roles and Responsibilities

The roles and responsibilities in what is asset management are diverse and require a range of skills and expertise. Key roles include:

Asset Managers: They are responsible for developing and implementing strategies to manage assets effectively. This involves conducting research, performing financial analysis, and making investment decisions.
Analysts: They provide critical support by analyzing market trends, assessing asset performance, and providing data-driven insights to inform investment strategies.
Operations Managers: These professionals ensure that the day-to-day operations of the assets are running smoothly, including maintenance, tenant relations, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Financial Advisors: They work closely with clients to understand their financial goals and develop customized investment plans to achieve those objectives. Closely understanding what is asset management needs for their clients
Compliance Officers: Ensuring that all asset management activities comply with relevant laws and regulations is crucial. Compliance officers monitor and enforce adherence to these standards.

What is an Asset Management Company (AMC)?

The functions of AMC are multifaceted and designed to deliver maximum value to their clients. These functions include:

Strategic Planning: Developing long-term strategies to manage and grow the client’s assets.
Portfolio Management: Selecting and managing a mix of asset classes to achieve the desired investment outcomes.
Risk Management: Identifying potential risks and implementing measures to mitigate them.
Performance Reporting: Providing clients with regular updates on the performance of their assets and the overall portfolio.
Client Advisory Services: Offering personalized advice and recommendations based on the client’s financial situation and goals.

If you were wondering “what is asset management company”, any organisation that offers the above services can be referred to as an AMC.

Types of Asset Management

Understanding what are the types of asset management is crucial for recognizing the breadth of this field. The main types include:

Real Estate Asset Management: Focuses on managing real estate properties to maximize income and value.
Financial Asset Management: Involves managing financial securities like stocks, bonds, and mutual funds to achieve investment objectives.
Infrastructure Asset Management: Deals with managing physical infrastructure assets such as roads, bridges, and utilities.
Enterprise Asset Management: Focuses on managing the assets of an organization to optimize their usage and performance.
Digital Asset Management (DAM): Involves managing digital media assets such as photos, videos, and audio files for businesses, ensuring they are easily accessible, organized, and used effectively.Manages software applications and licenses to ensure compliance, optimize usage, and reduce costs.

Conclusion

Asset management involves strategic management of various asset types to maximize value and minimize risk. Understanding the asset management process, the different types of assets, and the roles and responsibilities within the field provides a comprehensive view of how asset management works. Whether it’s through managing real estate portfolios or optimizing financial investments, asset managers play a vital role in helping clients achieve their financial goals. By leveraging their expertise in finance, strategic planning, and risk management, asset management companies ensure that assets are managed effectively and efficiently, contributing to the overall growth and stability of the financial markets.What is asset management is not just about managing assets, it’s about creating value and ensuring the sustainability of those assets over time. With the right knowledge and approach, asset management can significantly enhance the financial well-being of individuals and organizations alike. Enrol in the investment banking course by Imarticus to learn more about asset management and other financial management services.

FAQ’s

What is asset management, and why is it important?

Asset management helps companies of all sizes minimise the expense per asset and allows them to make the most out of these assets. Asset management helps organisations avoid costly problems and instances such as asset depreciation, asset damage or duplicate purchases.

How do you approach evaluating a new investment opportunity?

This is one of the most common asset management interview questions. Evaluating a new investment involves a two-way approach, understanding the opportunity itself and aligning it with your goals. Research the investment’s risk profile, market potential, and the team behind it. Then, assess how it fits your investment timeline, risk tolerance, and overall financial objectives. It’s like fitting a puzzle piece, the opportunity should complement your bigger financial picture.

What strategies to use for risk management in asset management?

Effective asset risk management lies in proactive strategies. Identify all assets, physical and intangible. Analyze past breakdowns and industry trends to predict future risks. Prioritize risks based on potential impact. Ease with preventive maintenance, diversification, or insurance. Regularly monitor performance and update plans as needed.

How do we stay updated with market trends and their impact on finance and asset management?

Staying ahead of market trends is crucial in asset management. Here are your tools to help you stay ahead:

Industry publications: Subscribe to reports and blogs from top asset managers and financial news sources.
Market data providers: Utilize platforms offering real-time data and analysis on economic indicators and asset classes.
Conferences and webinars: Attend industry events to hear expert insights on emerging trends and their impact on investment strategies.
Networking: Connect with other professionals to exchange ideas and stay informed on market developments.

What is Python Pandas? Pandas series, Uses & Tutorial

Posted on May 24, 2024July 25, 2024 by Imarticus Learning

Pandas is a two-dimensional data frame or structure within the open-source Python library. Elementary components of Pandas are data, rows and columns. Practically, Pandas data frame must be created from available storage like Excel, CSV file or SQL database.

Python programming language uses Pandas as a software library. The main function of Pandas is the analysis and manipulation of data. Users value Pandas for high-end performance when back-end codes are written in C or Python.

Python Pandas tutorial explicitly teaches how to use Python Pandas. Python Pandas tutorial contains Pandas practice questions to help prospective candidates.

Python Pandas tutorial also contains several “try then yourself” sections and some “frequently asked questions” at the end of each session.

What is Python Pandas?

Python has evolved in 1991. It rapidly became the most dependable programming language for Data Analysts, Web Designers and machine learning processes. Python is a simple, versatile and easy-to-use language.

Pandas use in Python was introduced by Wes McKinney in 2008. This DataFrame was developed over two key Python libraries – NumPy for mathematical operations and Matplotlib for data visualisation.

The conclusion becomes easier with Pandas since it cleans data and makes it relevant for analysis. The use of Pandas has become widespread due to the ease of Pandas data structure.

Pandas is considered a flexible and powerful quantitative tool for data manipulation, cleaning, segregation and analysis. Pandas Program in Python may be understood by going through its uses. Pandas use in Python are as follows –

Pandas data structure is an important use of Pandas. Series and data frames are used to manipulate big data.
Correlation between two or more columns.
Detect average, maximum or minimum values.
Interpolation, cleaning and filtration of data.
Identification of missing data and handling of non-floating point data.
Data can be aligned to a set of labels.
Merges and joins data with system-driven intuition.
Data inspection and analysis.
Variables in time series functionality.
Categorised or graded labelling of axes.
Pandas has a statistical model functionality.
Split-apply-combine operations on data sets can be easily performed.
Statistical analysis in SciPy and machine learning algorithms in Scikit-learn.
Pandas use in Python makes the system robust, smooth and practical.

Read more about Python training to learn how Python can be beneficial in reducing the skill gap in the modern workforce.

Python Pandas tutorial

Learning Pandas has become a key objective for professionals across Engineers, Data Analysts and Scientists. Python Pandas tutorial teaches an aspiring professional all the minute details, one must learn regarding Pandas. Python Pandas tutorial covers stepwise instructions regarding how to use Python Pandas.

Python Pandas tutorial also encourages students to solve Pandas practice questions to become more confident and conversant in the use of Pandas. Some aspirants also enrol in a data science course which helps them to learn about what is Pandas in Python.

The topics on how to use Python Pandas as given in the Python Pandas tutorial are as follows:

Installation of Pandas

The process is to install ActivePython as guided in the Python Pandas tutorial.

Create/slice a DataFrame in Pandas

A DataFrame in Pandas is preparing SQL Table or spreadsheet type two dimensional labelled data structure, in the form of columns and rows.

Grouping data in Python Pandas

The grouping function allows parameter-based data splitting into either rows or columns. The steps of this function are stated in the Python Pandas tutorial.

Access a row and column in a DataFrame

A student can use the loc and iloc functions to access both rows and columns in a DataFrame. Practical illustrations with CSV files are available in the Python Pandas tutorial.

Delete a row and column in Python

A student may use the drop function to delete columns and rows in the Python Pandas DataFrame.

Apply function

This function allows effective manipulation of columns and rows in a DataFrame. A proper guide to this function is available in the Python Pandas tutorial.

Import a data set in Python

A DataFrame object must be created first to import data from a CSV file. It is a good practice to save the file in the same directory as that of the Python code. Python Pandas tutorial help us learn the method in detail.

Indexing in Pandas

The process of indexing a Pandas DataFrame is essentially the identification of subsets of data, like rows, columns or individual cells, from a data frame. The steps are given in the Python Pandas tutorial.

Access to an element in the data frame

An element i.e. a row and a column or multiple rows or columns can be accessed using either iat or at functions. Detailed demonstrations with sample examples are available in the Python Pandas tutorial.

Reading CSV and JASON

The Python Pandas tutorial also covers how to read and understand CSV and JASON files.

How to analyse data

There are quite a few steps which a student must follow to analyse a data set. When the objectives are clear, the data analysis workflow needs to be understood. Data must be obtained and read through the CSV files.

Data should be cleansed with Python and relevant columns need to be created. Then the data analysis is performed by using Python Pandas. The methods on how to analyse data are given elaborately in the Python Pandas tutorial.

Framing data with Pandas

Python Pandas deal with linear series of data expressed in numbers. However, real-world data comes with other attributes also associated with the numbers. This two-dimensional data structure is known as DataFrame.

Python Pandas tutorial has enough inputs regarding the understanding of DataFrame.

Cleaning data and moving duplicates

Data cleaning is also known as data cleansing or data scrubbing. It is a method wherein incorrect, incomplete, erroneous or duplicate data in a data set are handled to suit analysis purposes. Data is updated, removed or changed as per requirement. A detailed explanation of the steps is given in the Python Pandas Tutorial.

Cleaning machine learning data sets using Pandas

A practical data set has all useful information. Columns with irrelevant information should be dropped. Those columns that have data not aligned with the final goal need to be deleted.

Those columns that have many empty cells also deserve removal. Columns containing non-comparable or non-compatible values also need to be deleted. A proper guide to this step is given in the Python Pandas Tutorial.

Correlation and plotting of data using Pandas

First, the right data set must be collected for the correlation matrix. Then, a data frame must be created. Next, correlation can be modelled with Python Pandas, followed by plotting data for graphical representation. A proper guide to this function is available in the Python Pandas tutorial.

Pandas tutorial in Python gives the prospective candidate a detailed insight into all the necessary steps that a prospective candidate needs to know. It also provides information on how to run the Pandas program in Python. Pandas tutorial in Python covers important topics like the Pandas series and operations.

Pandas tutorial in Python offers both textbook and video formats of learning. Python Pandas tutorial also renders a detailed knowledge of Pandas data structure.

Pandas series

A Pandas series is one of the many data structures. It is a one-dimensional array holding data of the following types – integer, string, float, Python objects etc. Collectively, axes labels are known as indexes.

Series may be created using inputs like an array, scalar value or constant. An empty series may also be created. A user needs to get accustomed to the Pandas program in Python to delve into the series.

Creation of a Pandas series is done using the following constructors – data, index, type and copy. Data can be any list, dictionary or scalar value. The index should be unique. Dtype refers to series data types while copy is used for copying data.

Pandas series needs to be studied since it is the basics of a DataFrame. DataFrame is a two-dimensional labelled data structure. It consists of rows and columns like a spreadsheet. Python Pandas tutorial coaches a student with both theoretical and practical knowledge of the Pandas series.

If predetermined indexes are available, they may be utilised to access Pandas series objects. Indexing or subset selection in Pandas is the identification of certain data from a Series object.

Interconversion of series into Data Frame and vice versa is possible. In specific functions, merging of Data Frame with series is also performed. The study of the Pandas series covers a lot of Pandas series attributes and Pandas series methods to perform a variety of functions.

It is recommended that you always solve a large variety of Pandas practice questions. This will help you to understand the Pandas series and what is Pandas in Python. A solid Python Pandas tutorial will have a good number of exercises and solutions to clear the reader’s doubts.

Operations

The most important function of data science is to prepare the data for model building, exploration and visualisation. Pandas is an exceptionally useful package in Python with several in-built functions capable of arithmetic, rational and logical operations. Those special symbols that carry out operations on values and variables are known as operators.

There are seven frequently used arithmetic operators and operands in Python Pandas. They are addition, subtraction, division, multiplication, modulus, exponential and floor division.

The rational operators and operands compare a value with another which is greater than, lesser than or equal to it.

The logical operators and operands are generally applied in conditional statements, like true or false. Here, a couple of situations should be satisfied to fulfil an equation.

Python Pandas tutorial helps a student to be a master of these operators. Practical knowledge of operations will help a student to understand what is Pandas in Python. There are quite a few data operations for the data frame, as follows –

Row and column

Selection of any value can be done by selecting the name of the row and column. Thus the representation is one dimensional and may be considered as a series.

Filter data

Data may be filtered by using some special data frame functions.

Null value functions

Null values (NaN), as the name suggests, do not contain data for the given item. In Python Pandas, users have the benefit of applying several unique functions for identifying, removing and/or replacing NaN in the data frame.

String operation

The string function in Pandas helps to deal with missing or NaN values in a data frame.

Count values

This operation supports locating the frequency of items.

Plot

Pandas deploy the plot function to draw the graph of the given data. The reverse

the function of tabulation can be also performed from a given graph.

Thus, the operation helps users to rationalise data in the first phase and convert the inputs into visual graphs, histograms, pie charts, etc. for easy understanding. All the above-mentioned topics are well covered in the Python Pandas tutorial.

Wrapping Up

Professional engagements as Data Scientists, Data Analysts and Artificial Intelligence Experts are lucrative in terms of future growth and compensation. A Python Pandas tutorial from a reputed institute will strengthen the learning foundation of the aspirant.

The Postgraduate Program In Data Science And Analytics by Imarticus will enable prospective candidates to have massive growth right at the beginning of their careers. The duration of this course is 6 months.

Visit the official website of Imarticus for more details.

FAQ’s

What are the different types of data structures in Pandas?

Pandas have three types of data structures, namely series, data frame and panel.

What is multi-indexing in Pandas?

Multi-indexing is a function of analysis, manipulation and storage of higher dimensional data.

What is the difference between operators and operands in Python?

Operators are special symbols in Python Pandas that facilitate different functions on variables and constants, known as operands.

What is NumPy?

NumPy, an abbreviation of Numerical Python, is a simple, open-source, versatile and widely used general-purpose package for processing arrays.

Advanced Certification in Cybersecurity and Blockchain: Mastering Emerging Technologies

Posted on May 24, 2024June 11, 2024 by Imarticus Learning

In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, cybersecurity and blockchain technology have emerged as pivotal elements, revolutionising various industries and reshaping the future of technology. As organisations worldwide grapple with the complexities of securing digital assets and ensuring data integrity, the demand for skilled professionals in these domains has skyrocketed.

Understanding Blockchain Technology

What Is a Blockchain?

A blockchain is a distributed ledger or database that is shared by all nodes in a computer network. Though they have applications outside of cryptocurrencies, they are most recognised for playing a critical part in cryptocurrency systems that preserve a safe and decentralised record of transactions. Any industry can employ blockchain technology to make data immutable, or incapable of being changed.

The one place where confidence is required is when a user or program submits data, as blocks cannot be changed. This feature lessens the requirement for reliable third parties, which are typically auditors or other people who incur expenses and make mistakes.

Blockchain applications have multiplied since the launch of Bitcoin in 2009 thanks to the development of smart contracts, Decentralised Finance (DeFi) apps, Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), and other cryptocurrencies.

Why Is Blockchain Important?

Blockchain is important because it provides a secure, transparent, and tamper-proof way of recording transactions and data. It eliminates the need for intermediaries, reduces fraud, and enhances trust in digital systems. Blockchain’s applications extend beyond cryptocurrencies to sectors such as finance, healthcare, supply chain management, and more.

Key Elements of a Blockchain

To fully grasp the potential of blockchain technology, it is essential to understand its core components:

Decentralization: Unlike traditional centralized databases, a blockchain operates on a network of computers (nodes), where each node holds a copy of the entire blockchain. This decentralized nature ensures that no single entity has control over the entire network, enhancing security and trust.
Immutability: Once a transaction is recorded on a blockchain, it cannot be altered or deleted. This immutability is achieved through cryptographic hashing, which links each block to the previous one, creating a secure chain of data.
Consensus Mechanisms: Blockchain relies on consensus algorithms such as Proof of Work (PoW) or Proof of Stake (PoS) to validate and confirm transactions. These mechanisms ensure that all participants in the network agree on the validity of transactions, maintaining the integrity of the blockchain.
Smart Contracts: These are self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement directly written into code. Smart contracts automatically enforce and execute the terms of an agreement when predefined conditions are met, eliminating the need for intermediaries and reducing the risk of fraud.

The Importance of Cybersecurity

As the digital world expands, so do the threats that target its vulnerabilities. Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting systems, networks, and programs from digital attacks. These attacks are aimed at assessing, changing, or destroying sensitive information, extorting money from users, or interrupting normal business processes.

With the increasing sophistication of cyber threats, robust cybersecurity measures are essential to safeguard digital assets and maintain trust in digital systems. Cybersecurity encompasses various practices, including network security, information security, application security, and operational security. It also involves regular updates and patching, employee education, and incident response planning.

The Advanced Certificate in Cybersecurity and Blockchain By E&ICT IIT Guwahati

This Blockchain certification course is meticulously designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of both cybersecurity and blockchain technologies. The curriculum is tailored to address the latest trends, challenges, and solutions in these fields, ensuring that participants are well-equipped to tackle real-world problems.

Course Highlights:

In-depth Knowledge: The program covers fundamental and advanced topics in cybersecurity and blockchain, providing a solid foundation and deep insights into these domains.
Hands-on Experience: Participants will engage in practical exercises, simulations, and real-world projects that mimic industry scenarios, enabling them to apply their knowledge effectively.
Expert Faculty: The course is taught by experienced faculty from IIT Guwahati, along with industry experts who bring a wealth of knowledge and practical experience.
Industry-Relevant Curriculum: The curriculum is constantly updated to reflect the latest advancements and industry requirements, ensuring that participants are learning the most relevant and up-to-date information.
Certification: Upon completion of the program, participants will receive an Advanced Certificate in Cybersecurity and Blockchain from E&ICT IIT Guwahati, validating their expertise and enhancing their career prospects.

Career Opportunities and Benefits

Completing the Blockchain certification course opens up a plethora of career opportunities. Graduates can pursue roles such as:

Blockchain Developer: Specialising in creating and managing blockchain-based applications and systems.
Cybersecurity Analyst: Focusing on protecting an organisation’s digital infrastructure from cyber threats.
Smart Contract Developer: Developing and deploying smart contracts on blockchain platforms.
Blockchain Consultant: Advising organisations on implementing and leveraging blockchain technology for various use cases.
Information Security Manager: Overseeing an organisation’s cybersecurity strategy and implementation.

The skills and knowledge gained from this program are highly sought after in various industries, including finance, healthcare, supply chain, government, and technology. Organisations are increasingly recognising the importance of cybersecurity and blockchain, leading to a growing demand for professionals with expertise in these areas.

Conclusion

In today’s digital age, mastering emerging technologies such as cybersecurity and blockchain is crucial for staying ahead in the competitive landscape. The Advanced Certification in Cybersecurity and Blockchain by E&ICT IIT Guwahati offers a unique opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge and practical skills in these fields. This Blockchain certification course not only enhances your technical abilities but also prepares you to tackle the challenges of the digital world with confidence and competence.If you’re ready to advance your career and become a leader in cybersecurity and blockchain technology, enrol in the Advanced Certification Course in Cybersecurity and Blockchain today. Visit Imarticus Learning for more information and to get started on your journey to mastering these transformative technologies.