Lecture 2: Linear Algebra

The lecture introduces linear algebra with a focus on its applications in quantitative finance, covering vector and matrix fundamentals, portfolio valuation, and concepts like short selling, arbitrage, and contingent claims. It further explores stochastic matrices and Markov chains, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, and their roles in modeling financial markets, culminating in discussions on no-arbitrage conditions, market completeness, and pricing measures essential for option pricing theory.