Area of expertise

Finance

Financial markets facilitate payments, enable financing for investments, and assist citizens and businesses in risk mitigation. At the same time, the government plays a significant role in overseeing and regulating the financial sector.

SEO supports both public and private clients in evaluating the effectiveness of regulations and oversight in financial markets. We conduct calculations to assess behavioural effects. Additionally, we contribute to optimising the protection of public interests related to financial services.

We utilise both public and private microdata and quantitative models to make predictions. Furthermore, we draw insights from behavioural economics, conduct choice experiments and analyse administrative data to determine the impact of policies on human behaviour.

SUB-EXPERTISES

Regulation and supervision

To what extent is financial sector regulation and supervision necessary, effective and efficient?

SEO conducts quantitative and qualitative economic analyses of legislation and regulation for various aspects of the financial sector. This includes pension funds, insurers, banks, payment institutions, cryptocurrency service providers, accountants, trust offices, financial service providers and private equity. Our economists possess extensive knowledge of financial market laws and regulations. We assess the necessity of regulation, evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of existing regulatory frameworks and supervisory mechanisms, and identify opportunities to enhance the effectiveness of regulation and supervision.

Behavioural economics and financial decision making

How do consumers deal with financial risk, and what behavioural economic factors play a role in investment decisions?

SEO investigates the influence of human behaviour, such as status quo bias and reliance on default options, on choices made in the financial context. Additionally, SEO examines the effects of information provision on decision-making behaviour, aiming to gain a better understanding of how consumers make financial decisions and how one can influence this behaviour.