Islamic Finance and Banking: Core Principles and Modern Practice

The global financial landscape is increasingly embracing ethical, risk-sharing models that prioritize social responsibility alongside profitability. This text-based course introduces you to the core principles of Islamic finance and banking, explaining how these frameworks operate globally today. You will transition from having no background in the subject to confidently understanding Sharia-compliant contracts, the prohibition of speculative activities, and modern financial instruments. You will also explore how these traditional values align with modern fintech and sustainable environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing. What you'll learn: - Understand the foundational principles of Sharia law and its application to modern financial systems. - Analyze the prohibition of interest (Riba), uncertainty (Gharar), and gambling (Maysir) in financial transactions. - Explore core Islamic banking contracts including Murabaha, Mudaraba, and Musharaka. - Examine the structure and utility of Sukuk (Islamic bonds) in global capital markets. - Evaluate the integration of modern fintech, digital banking, and ESG principles within Islamic finance. The course begins with essential terminology and the ethical philosophy behind Islamic economics. You will then progress through the mechanics of specific banking contracts, risk-sharing models, and modern digital applications through clear written explanations and practical scenario-based exercises. This course is designed entirely for beginners, and no prior background in finance, economics, or religious studies is required. Start reading today to build a solid foundation in one of the fastest-growing sectors of global finance.