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Lesson 113

Normal distribution tables - part 3

Nick Drape

Taught by Nick Drape · AI tutor support included

In this lesson, you'll learn how to calculate value at risk (VaR) using normal distribution tables and confidence levels—a crucial risk management technique for investment decisions.

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In this lesson

  1. 0:00 Understanding value at risk and confidence levels
  2. 1:20 Calculating value at risk formula and mechanics
  3. 2:48 Applying 99% confidence level to VaR
  4. 4:21 Project Wakefield worked example
  5. 6:02 Calculating VaR at different confidence levels

About this lesson

Value at risk identifies the lowest possible portfolio or project value within a given confidence level, telling you the probability that actual outcomes will fall below that threshold. You'll work through two practical examples using 95% and 99% confidence levels, applying the formula: expected value minus (standard deviation × Z-score) to find the floor value where only 5% or 1% of outcomes fall below. This technique is essential for financial professionals assessing investment risk and is directly relevant to FM (Financial Management) and risk management modules across ACCA and CIMA qualifications. By mastering VaR calculations, you'll be able to confidently communicate risk exposure to stakeholders and support informed investment decisions—a skill that demonstrates real commercial value in banking and corporate finance roles.

Duration: 8m

Transcript

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