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Starweaver Instructor Partner Network

Michael McDonald

Empowering Learners with Expertise in Finance and Economics

With over a decade of expertise in finance and economics, supported by a PhD in Finance and extensive teaching experience at Fairfield University, he is committed to delivering in-depth insights into financial accounting, analysis, and business valuation.
Jun 2023
Fairfield, United States
Alternative AssetsAsset AllocationAsset Managementbanking and financialBig DataBig Data analytics toolsBond YieldsbondsBudgeting and ForecastingBusiness Analysis
Michael McDonald

    About

    With over a decade of expertise in finance and economics, supported by a PhD in Finance and extensive teaching experience at Fairfield University, he is committed to delivering in-depth insights into financial accounting, analysis, and business valuation. His academic journey is distinguished by numerous publications on topics ranging from stock returns to bond market dynamics, reflecting a profound understanding of global financial markets.

    Renowned for his dynamic teaching style, he seamlessly blends theoretical concepts with real-world applications. He has taught a diverse range of courses, from foundational investments to advanced project analysis and factor-based investing, consistently crafting tailored coursework to enhance student learning outcomes.

    His professional background as a municipal bond trader and senior editor at Seeking Alpha brings practical insights and industry relevance to his instruction. This unique blend of academic rigor and real-world expertise equips students with critical analytical skills, empowering them to navigate today’s complex financial landscape with confidence.

    Passionate about knowledge dissemination, he excels in both traditional and e-learning environments, fostering an engaging and transformative learning experience. His courses are meticulously designed to make complex financial concepts accessible and actionable, bridging the gap between theory and practice. With a dedication to inspiring the next generation of finance professionals, he remains a trusted mentor and thought leader in the field.

    "Empowering Learners with Expertise in Finance and Economics"

    Michael McDonald introduction video

    Watch video

    Intro to Michael's work

    Courses

    Advanced Financial Analysis and Credit Risk Modeling
    NEW
    intermediate

    Advanced Financial Analysis and Credit Risk Modeling

    Develop advanced analytical skills in ratio analysis, cash flow evaluation, and quantitative credit risk modeling techniques used by professional credit analysts.

    Michael McDonald

    Oct 2025
    5h 30m
    Credit Analysis in Action: Economic and Industry Essentials
    NEW
    intermediate

    Credit Analysis in Action: Economic and Industry Essentials

    Learn to assess credit risk, analyze bonds and derivatives, and apply Basel III, ESG, and stress testing to manage fixed-income portfolios with confidence through real-world tools, case studies, and expert-led instruction.

    Michael McDonald

    Oct 2025
    6h 30m
    Foundations of Credit Analysis and Fixed Income Securities
    NEW
    intermediate

    Foundations of Credit Analysis and Fixed Income Securities

    Gain a strategic foundation in credit analysis and fixed income investing. Learn to assess credit risk, evaluate bonds, and apply analytical frameworks to make informed investment decisions in real-world market scenarios.

    Michael McDonald

    Oct 2025
    6h 40m
    Accounting and Financial Modelling Bootcamp
    UPCOMING
    core

    Accounting and Financial Modelling Bootcamp

    The Accounting & Financial Modeling Bootcamp is an online program for beginners, covering financial statements, Excel modeling, ratio analysis, and DCF valuation. Perfect for aspiring analysts, entrepreneurs, and career-switchers.

    Michael McDonald

    Oct 2025
    15h
    Credit Analysis: Portfolio Management & Regulations
    NEW
    intermediate

    Credit Analysis: Portfolio Management & Regulations

    Learn to assess credit risk, analyze bonds and derivatives, and apply Basel III, ESG, and stress testing to manage fixed-income portfolios with confidence through real-world tools, case studies, and expert-led instruction.

    Michael McDonald

    Oct 2025
    6h 15m
    Foundations of Financial Statement
    UPCOMING
    core

    Foundations of Financial Statement

    This course offers an introduction to financial statements, covering accounting principles like double-entry bookkeeping, the accounting equation, and revenue recognition.

    Michael McDonald

    Oct 2025
    9h
    Financial Analysis and Ratio Interpretation
    UPCOMING
    core

    Financial Analysis and Ratio Interpretation

    This course teaches students how to evaluate financial performance using key ratios and analysis frameworks.

    Michael McDonald

    Oct 2025
    9h
    Financial Modeling Fundamentals
    UPCOMING
    core

    Financial Modeling Fundamentals

    This course introduces learners to the process of building structured, assumption-driven financial models in Microsoft Excel.

    Michael McDonald

    Oct 2025
    9h
    Valuation and Investment Analysis
    UPCOMING
    core

    Valuation and Investment Analysis

    This course introduces learners to the core principles, tools, and frameworks used in valuing businesses, investments, and financial assets.

    Michael McDonald

    Oct 2025
    9h