University of Sydney Finance Databases

The University of Sydney provides students and researchers access to a wealth of financial databases, essential tools for conducting rigorous and insightful research, completing coursework, and gaining practical skills in finance. These databases offer comprehensive data on companies, markets, and economic indicators, enabling users to perform sophisticated analyses and make informed decisions.

Key Databases and Their Uses

Here’s a rundown of some of the key finance databases available through the University Library:

• Bloomberg Terminal: Considered the gold standard in financial data, Bloomberg offers real-time market data, news, analytics, and communication tools. It provides access to information on equities, fixed income, commodities, currencies, and economic indicators. Students and researchers can use Bloomberg for tasks such as portfolio construction and analysis, valuation, risk management, and tracking market trends. Training is often required to effectively navigate its extensive features.
• Refinitiv Eikon: A powerful alternative to Bloomberg, Refinitiv Eikon delivers comprehensive financial data, news, and analytics. Its coverage spans global markets and asset classes, including company financials, macroeconomic data, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) data. Eikon’s Excel add-ins allow for seamless data integration and analysis. It’s useful for financial modeling, company screening, and understanding macroeconomic impacts on financial markets.
• WRDS (Wharton Research Data Services): WRDS is a platform providing access to a vast collection of databases, including:
  • Compustat: Standardized financial statement data for publicly traded companies, essential for fundamental analysis and financial modeling.
  • CRSP (Center for Research in Security Prices): Historical stock market data, crucial for conducting empirical research in finance, such as event studies and asset pricing analysis.
  • IBES (Institutional Brokers’ Estimate System): Analyst forecasts of earnings and other financial variables, valuable for studying market efficiency and investor behavior.
  • Thomson Reuters SDC Platinum: Data on mergers and acquisitions, initial public offerings (IPOs), and other corporate finance transactions.
• Morningstar Direct: Focuses on investment data, providing detailed information on mutual funds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and other investment products. It’s helpful for portfolio analysis, performance attribution, and investment screening.
• BoardEx: Provides information on corporate leadership, including board members and senior executives. Useful for research on corporate governance, executive compensation, and network analysis.

Access and Support

Access to these databases is generally available to University of Sydney students and staff through the University Library website. The library offers resources and workshops to help users learn how to effectively utilize these tools. Database access may be restricted to on-campus use for certain resources. Be sure to check the library’s website for specific access details and training schedules.

Importance for Students and Researchers

These finance databases are invaluable resources for students pursuing degrees in finance, economics, and related fields. They provide the raw materials for conducting original research, completing assignments, and developing the analytical skills necessary for successful careers in the financial industry. For researchers, these databases are essential for exploring complex financial phenomena, testing hypotheses, and contributing to the body of knowledge in finance.