This Professional Certificate Course in International Investment and Financing provides a comprehensive overview of key financial principles. Participants will gain insights into cash management objectives, exploring motives for holding cash and its impact on liquidity management. The course delves into the intricacies of international cash management, addressing factors like currency risk, cross-border transactions, and regulatory requirements. Additionally, it covers risk assessment and mitigation strategies, including hedging and diversification. The program also examines the distinctions between portfolio and foreign direct investment, outlining the benefits and risks. Furthermore, participants will evaluate strategies for sourcing global equity, incorporating tools such as American Depository Receipts (ADRs) and Depositary Receipts. After the successful completion of the course, you will be able to learn about the following: Understand the Objectives of Cash Management and its Importance in Effectively Managing an Organisation's Cash Flows. Explore the Motives Behind Holding Cash and How it Impacts Liquidity Management in Both Domestic and International Contexts. Analyse the Complexities Involved in International Cash Management Including Factors Such as Currency Risk, Cross-border Transactions and Regulatory Requirements. Assess the Risks Associated with International Cash Management and Identify Strategies to Mitigate these Risks Such as Hedging, Diversification and Cash Flow Forecasting. Examine the Concept of Portfolio Investment and its Distinction from Foreign Direct Investment, Highlighting the Benefits and Risks of Engaging in Foreign Portfolio Investment. Evaluate the Benefits and Challenges of Sourcing Equity Globally and Design Strategies for Raising Equity in Foreign Markets Including the Use of American Depository Receipts (ADRS) and Depositary Receipts. This Professional Certificate Course in International Investment and Financing offers a comprehensive understanding of cash management objectives and their pivotal role in organizational cash flow dynamics. Participants delve into motives for holding cash, examining impacts on liquidity management in both domestic and international contexts. The course further analyzes complexities in international cash management, including currency risk, cross-border transactions, and regulatory considerations. Students assess associated risks and explore mitigation strategies such as hedging, diversification, and cash flow forecasting. Additionally, the curriculum covers portfolio investment, distinguishing it from foreign direct investment, and explores the benefits and risks of foreign portfolio investment. The course concludes by evaluating the benefits and challenges of sourcing equity globally, designing strategies for raising equity in foreign markets, and considering instruments like American Depository Receipts (ADRs) and depositary receipts. This Professional Certificate Course in International Investment and Financing provides a comprehensive understanding of cash management objectives and the crucial role it plays in organizational cash flow dynamics. Delve into the motives behind cash holdings, examining their impact on liquidity management both domestically and internationally. The course analyzes the intricacies of international cash management, addressing factors like currency risk and regulatory requirements. Explore risk assessment and mitigation strategies, such as hedging and diversification, and gain insights into portfolio investment distinctions, foreign equity sourcing benefits, and challenges, including the use of American Depository Receipts (ADRs) and Depositary Receipts. Course Structure and Assessment Guidelines Watch this video to gain further insight. Navigating the MSBM Study Portal Watch this video to gain further insight. Interacting with Lectures/Learning Components Watch this video to gain further insight. International Investment and Financing Self-paced pre-recorded learning content on this topic. International Investment And Financing Put your knowledge to the test with this quiz. Read each question carefully and choose the response that you feel is correct. All MSBM courses are accredited by the relevant partners and awarding bodies. Please refer to MSBM accreditation in about us for more details. There are no strict entry requirements for this course. Work experience will be added advantage to understanding the content of the course.The certificate is designed to enhance the learner's knowledge in the field. This certificate is for everyone eager to know more and get updated on current ideas in their respective field. We recommend this certificate for the following audience,ental Health Specialist Financial Managers and Analysts International Business Executives Treasury and Cash Management Professionals Risk Management Specialists Investment Analysts Corporate Finance Professionals Banking and Finance Graduates Entrepreneurs Expanding Globally Average Completion Time 2 Weeks Accreditation 3 CPD Hours Level Advanced Start Time Anytime 100% Online Study online with ease. Unlimited Access 24/7 unlimited access with pre-recorded lectures. Low Fees Our fees are low and easy to pay online.
The objective of fast track Level 5 Diploma in Business Management qualification (accredited by OTHM) is to provide learners with an excellent foundation for a career in a range of organisations. It is designed to ensure that each learner is 'business ready': a confident, independent thinker with a detailed knowledge of business and management, and equipped with the skills to adapt rapidly to change.The content of the qualification is focused on people management, managing projects, marketing, finance for managers, business law, business ethics and social responsibility. The qualification is ideal for those who have started, or are planning to move into, a career in private or public sector business. Successful completion of the fast track Level 5 Diploma in Business Management qualification will provide learners with the opportunity to progress to further study or employment. Program Overview Key Highlights Program Duration: 6 Months (Regular duration mode available) Program Credits: 120 Designed for working Professionals Format: Online No Written Exam. The Assessment is done via Submission of Assignment Tutor Assist available Dedicated Student Success Manager Timely Doubt Resolution Regular Networking Events with Industry Professionals Direct entry into Year 1 of a three-year UK Bachelor's degree LSBR Alumni Status No Cost EMI Option Top Skills You Will Learn You will get knowledge and skills required by a middle manager who is involved in people management, managing projects, marketing, finance, business law, business ethics and social responsibility. Who is this course for? Working Professionals, A-Level / Level 4 / Year 1 of a three-year UK Bachelor's degree holders or learners who are looking for Career Progression and a formal undergraduate qualification leading to award of degrees in future.
Overview This course will help our clients to assist not only in meeting the challenges of introducing IPSAS but also to secure the benefits of improved financial management to help secure the organisational objectives and goals of each public service organisation. This enables multi-national organisations to make comparisons between projects wherever in the world they happen, irrespective of jurisdiction, culture, language and ethnicity. IPSAS is becoming and will become the World standard for Public Sector entities. We have developed this course starting with an introduction and then implementation of IPSAS. This allows clients to structure the move to IPSAS within its appropriate Framework. It is an approach that enables implementation to be done in a structured and well-managed way. In the course we will consider the main requirements of IPSAS and, by showing how they affect financial reports and published accounts, will help you to apply IPSAS. The course will assist both finance managers and general managers whose organisations and departments will be affected by IPSAS. The consequences of managing the finances of public organisations will be examined, together with potential unintended consequences. How to implement IPSAS effectively and economically, is probably the most important aspect. The approach will be to understand the advantages to the organisation from IPSAS implementation and how benefits realisation can be ensured both internally and for stakeholders. The course will deal with practical issues for public sector organisations, including strategic management and the medium-term financial framework
The 'Complete Investing Course' provides a comprehensive introduction to investment, covering different types and techniques of investment, key concepts in finance, and specific investment opportunities in the bond and stock markets. Additionally, the course explores risk management and portfolio strategies to enhance investment decision-making. Learning Outcomes: Understand the fundamentals of investment and its importance in personal finance. Identify various types of investments and the techniques used to analyze and evaluate them. Comprehend key financial concepts and terminology relevant to investing. Gain insights into the bond market and learn how to make informed investment decisions in bonds. Explore the stock market and understand strategies for investing in stocks effectively. Learn techniques for managing investment risks and building a diversified investment portfolio. Apply investment knowledge and principles to make informed and sound investment decisions. Why buy this Investment: Complete Investing Course? Unlimited access to the course for forever Digital Certificate, Transcript, student ID all included in the price Absolutely no hidden fees Directly receive CPD accredited qualifications after course completion Receive one to one assistance on every weekday from professionals Immediately receive the PDF certificate after passing Receive the original copies of your certificate and transcript on the next working day Easily learn the skills and knowledge from the comfort of your home Certification After studying the course materials of the Investment: Complete Investing Course there will be a written assignment test which you can take either during or at the end of the course. After successfully passing the test you will be able to claim the pdf certificate for £5.99. Original Hard Copy certificates need to be ordered at an additional cost of £9.60. Who is this course for? This Investment: Complete Investing Course course is ideal for Students Recent graduates Job Seekers Anyone interested in this topic People already working in the relevant fields and want to polish their knowledge and skill. Prerequisites This Investment: Complete Investing Course does not require you to have any prior qualifications or experience. You can just enrol and start learning.This Investment: Complete Investing Course was made by professionals and it is compatible with all PC's, Mac's, tablets and smartphones. You will be able to access the course from anywhere at any time as long as you have a good enough internet connection. Career path As this course comes with multiple courses included as bonus, you will be able to pursue multiple occupations. This Investment: Complete Investing Course is a great way for you to gain multiple skills from the comfort of your home. Course Curriculum Module 01: Introduction to Investment Introduction to Investment 00:14:00 Module 02: Types and Techniques of Investment Types and Techniques of Investment 00:20:00 Module 03: Key Concepts in Investment Key Concepts in Investment 00:17:00 Module 04: Understanding the Finance Understanding the Finance 00:14:00 Module 05: Investing in Bond Market Investing in Bond Market 00:14:00 Module 06: Investing in Stock Market Investing in Stock Market 00:17:00 Module 07: Risk and Portfolio Management Risk and Portfolio Management 00:16:00 Assignment Assignment - Investment: Complete Investing Course 00:00:00
Introduction: Finance is key to economic development. It provides an investment basis and supports the flow of income and expenses. A country's financial sector transforms its economic savings into investments. An efficient financial sector does not just accomplish that, but also encourages savings and increased investment. Eventually, it results in increased income levels, and faster economic growth of the country. The financial sector also provides money and methods of payments to support the exchange of economic goods and services. However, financial regulation is key to the efficient functioning of the financial sector. Financial regulation comes in to offer varied benefits to both consumers and players in the industry. This course covers the Financial Services and Markets Act (FSMA) in the United Kingdom. It is a key regulator of the UK financial sector. First, we give extensive details about the Act. The course explains what it is and the varied functions it plays in the UK's financial sector. It further explains the different regulatory bodies that work under the Financial Services and Markets Act, including subordinate legislation. Next, it states the various regulated financial activities in the UK under the financial framework. Finally, it concludes with a few benefits of regulating a financial services market. What You Will Lean: What the Financial Services and Markets Act is and what it does The key roles and functions of the FSMA The regulatory bodies working under the Financial Services and Markets Act The benefits of regulating the financial services sector The varied functions of the FCA, PRA and FPC Benefits of This Course Taking this Course Will Help You: Understand the role of financial regulators Understand the different aspects of the financial services sector that the Act affects Understand the Financial Services and Markets Act and its role in the UK's financial services sector Learn the various bodies or regimes involved in financial regulation Learn the importance of financial regulation Gain basic knowledge of industry regulation before entering the financial sector to start a business
Overview Uplift Your Career & Skill Up to Your Dream Job - Learning Simplified From Home! Kickstart your career & boost your employability by helping you discover your skills, talents and interests with our special Financial Planning Course. You'll create a pathway to your ideal job as this course is designed to uplift your career in the relevant industry. It provides professional training that employers are looking for in today's workplaces. The Financial Planning Course is one of the most prestigious training offered at StudyHub and is highly valued by employers for good reason. This Financial Planning Course has been designed by industry experts to provide our learners with the best learning experience possible to increase their understanding of their chosen field. This Financial Planning Course, like every one of Study Hub's courses, is meticulously developed and well researched. Every one of the topics is divided into elementary modules, allowing our students to grasp each lesson quickly. At StudyHub, we don't just offer courses; we also provide a valuable teaching process. When you buy a course from StudyHub, you get unlimited Lifetime access with 24/7 dedicated tutor support. Why buy this Financial Planning? Unlimited access to the course for forever Digital Certificate, Transcript, student ID all included in the price Absolutely no hidden fees Directly receive CPD accredited qualifications after course completion Receive one to one assistance on every weekday from professionals Immediately receive the PDF certificate after passing Receive the original copies of your certificate and transcript on the next working day Easily learn the skills and knowledge from the comfort of your home Certification After studying the course materials of the Financial Planning there will be a written assignment test which you can take either during or at the end of the course. After successfully passing the test you will be able to claim the pdf certificate for £5.99. Original Hard Copy certificates need to be ordered at an additional cost of £9.60. Who is this course for? This Financial Planning course is ideal for Students Recent graduates Job Seekers Anyone interested in this topic People already working in the relevant fields and want to polish their knowledge and skill. Prerequisites This Financial Planning does not require you to have any prior qualifications or experience. You can just enrol and start learning.This Financial Planning was made by professionals and it is compatible with all PC's, Mac's, tablets and smartphones. You will be able to access the course from anywhere at any time as long as you have a good enough internet connection. Career path As this course comes with multiple courses included as bonus, you will be able to pursue multiple occupations. This Financial Planning is a great way for you to gain multiple skills from the comfort of your home. In the United Kingdom, these positions pay an average of £20,000 to £65,000 a year. Course Curriculum Module 01: Introduction to Finance Introduction to Finance 00:23:00 Module 02: Essential Skill for Financial Advisor Essential Skills for Financial Advisors 00:34:00 Module 03: Financial Planning Financial Planning 00:37:00 Module 04: Wealth Management and Guide to Make Personal Financial Statements Wealth Management and Guide to Make Personal Financial Statements 00:18:00 Module 05: Financial Risk Management and Assessment Financial Risk Management and Assessment 00:31:00 Module 06: Investment Planning Investment Planning 00:25:00 Module 07: Divorce Planning Divorce Planning 00:26:00 Module 08: Google Analytics for Financial Advisors Google Analytics for Financial Advisor 00:26:00 Assignment Assignment - Financial Planning 00:00:00
Capital Maintenance, a tricky subject now made easy Are you starting your own business but struggling to keep track of the finances? Or perhaps you want to pursue a career in capital maintenance? Either way this course is the answer to all your questions. One of the primary reasons for many small businesses failing is their lack of planning. Sure not everything always goes according to plan, but that's why capital finances are used, in order to address several different platforms such as replacement decisions to maintain the general business entity. In this course, you will be introduced to the basics of capital finance. Identify different factors determining fixed and working capital requirements. You will also learn the difference between owned and borrowed capital, utilize tools like Constant Purchasing Power (CPP), different financial instruments and much more to help your business flourish. So what are your waiting for? If you are ready to sink your teeth to learn about Capital Maintenance, jump on aboard. Assessment: At the end of the course, you will be required to sit an online multiple-choice test. Your test will be assessed automatically and immediately so that you will instantly know whether you have been successful. Before sitting for your final exam you will have the opportunity to test your proficiency with a mock exam. Certification: After you have successfully passed the test, you will be able to obtain an Accredited Certificate of Achievement. You can however also obtain a Course Completion Certificate following the course completion without sitting for the test. Certificates can be obtained either in hard copy at a cost of £39 or in PDF format at a cost of £24. PDF certificate's turnaround time is 24 hours and for the hardcopy certificate, it is 3-9 working days. Why choose us? Affordable, engaging & high-quality e-learning study materials; Tutorial videos/materials from the industry leading experts; Study in a user-friendly, advanced online learning platform; Efficient exam systems for the assessment and instant result; The UK & internationally recognized accredited qualification; Access to course content on mobile, tablet or desktop from anywhere anytime; The benefit of career advancement opportunities; 24/7 student support via email. Capital Maintenance Capital Finance Basics 01:00:00 Important Factors Affecting The Requirement Of Fixed Capital 00:30:00 Important Factors Affecting The Requirement Of Working Capital 00:30:00 The Differences Between Own And Borrowed Capital 00:30:00 Importance Of Constant Purchasing Power Accounting 00:15:00 Services Provided By Financial Instruments 00:30:00 Financial Institutions And Short Term Loans For Businesses 00:30:00 Piggy Banking Start Savings Early 00:30:00 Savings Is Never Enough: Invest Now 01:00:00 Powerful Savings Method: 401k & IRA 01:00:00 Jump Into Mutual Fund Investments 00:30:00 Save Big On Expenses: Frugal Living 01:00:00 Engage yourself to A Financial Adviser Now! 00:30:00 Wrapping Up 00:15:00 Mock Exam Mock Exam- Capital Maintenance and Piggy Banking 00:30:00 Final Exam Final Exam- Capital Maintenance and Piggy Banking 00:30:00 Order Your Certificate and Transcript Order Your Certificates and Transcripts 00:00:00
The Wealth and Asset Management Essentials Course offers a focused exploration into the key principles and strategies that govern effective wealth preservation and growth. Designed for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of financial asset management, this course covers essential topics such as portfolio construction, risk management, and investment vehicles. Whether you're a novice or looking to refresh your knowledge, the course delivers clear, concise insights that build a solid foundation in managing personal or institutional wealth. Through expertly structured modules, learners gain a broad appreciation of how various asset classes operate and interact within the financial markets. The course also highlights important considerations around market trends, investment performance analysis, and regulatory frameworks, all presented in an accessible online format. Perfectly suited for anyone aiming to enhance their financial acumen, this course equips participants with the theoretical knowledge needed to make well-informed decisions in wealth and asset management. Learning Outcomes: After completing this Wealth Management course, you should be able to - Gain a comprehensive understanding of Wealth Management. Explore asset management principles and strategies. Develop skills in financial planning and risk assessment. Master the art of portfolio management and investment strategies. Understand the nuances of wealth management, taxation, and estate planning. Certification Upon successful course completion, students can obtain a certificate titled Wealth Management. You can get a digital certificate in a high-resolution PDF format for Free. If you prefer a hard copy and you live in the UK, we offer a professionally printed certificate mailed to your address for £3.99. International students can also request a hard copy certificate which will be shipped to your address outside the UK for £10. CPD 10 CPD hours / points Accredited by CPD Quality Standards Who is this course for? This Wealth Management course is ideal for - Aspiring wealth managers seeking a theoretical understanding of the field. Financial professionals looking to expand their knowledge in wealth management. Individuals interested in personal finance and investment strategies. Students pursuing degrees in finance or related fields. Career path Wealth Manager: £40,000 - £100,000 per year Investment Advisor: £35,000 - £80,000 per year Financial Planner: £30,000 - £70,000 per year Portfolio Manager: £45,000 - £120,000 per year Estate Planner: £40,000 - £90,000 per year Certificates Digital certificate Digital certificate - Included Hard copy certificate Hard copy certificate - Included Hardcopy Certificate (UK Delivery): For those who wish to have a physical token of their achievement, we offer a high-quality, printed certificate. This hardcopy certificate is also provided free of charge. However, please note that delivery fees apply. If your shipping address is within the United Kingdom, the delivery fee will be only £3.99. Hardcopy Certificate (International Delivery): For all international addresses outside of the United Kingdom, the delivery fee for a hardcopy certificate will be only £10.
In today's financial landscape, the role of a Credit Control Analyst is indispensable. This course equips individuals with the necessary skills to excel in this critical field. Through modules like Credit Control Fundamentals, Risk Evaluation, and Effective Debt Management, participants gain expertise in managing credit and evaluating risks, vital for maintaining financial stability. With an increasing demand for credit management professionals in the UK, mastering these skills opens up abundant job opportunities. The average salary for Credit Control Analysts in the UK stands at £30,000 per annum, reflecting the industry's recognition of their importance. Additionally, with a 10% growth in credit management roles anticipated in the coming years, undertaking this course ensures a competitive edge in the job market. Moreover, by focusing on compliance, customer communication, and leveraging financial tools, individuals enhance their value in this evolving sector. As businesses increasingly rely on credit control for financial health, mastering the nuances of this discipline through this course becomes paramount for career advancement and professional success. Key Features: CPD Certified Credit Control Analyst Course Free Certificate Developed by Specialist Lifetime Access Course Curriculum: Module 01: Credit Control Fundamentals Module 02: Managing Credit Module 03: Risk Evaluation and Credit Scoring Techniques Module 04: Effective Debt Management Module 05: Enhancing Customer Communication Module 06: Compliance in Credit Control Module 07: Analysis and Reporting in Finance Module 08: Utilizing Tools and Technologies in Credit Control Learning Outcomes: Understand principles of credit control for financial stability and efficiency. Apply credit management strategies to mitigate financial risks effectively. Analyze creditworthiness using risk assessment and scoring techniques proficiently. Implement debt management procedures to optimize financial recovery processes. Enhance customer relations through effective communication in credit control practices. Ensure adherence to credit control regulations and compliance standards consistently. CPD 10 CPD hours / points Accredited by CPD Quality Standards Who is this course for? This Credit Control Analyst course is accessible to anyone eager to learn more about this topic. Through this course, you'll gain a solid understanding of Credit Control Analyst. Moreover, this course is ideal for: Finance professionals seeking credit control expertise. Business administrators aiming to enhance financial management skills. Graduates pursuing careers in credit risk analysis and management. Individuals aspiring to work in debt recovery and financial consulting. Entrepreneurs looking to improve credit control within their businesses. Requirements There are no requirements needed to enrol into this Credit Control Analyst course. We welcome individuals from all backgrounds and levels of experience to enrol into this Credit Control Analyst course. Career path After finishing this Credit Control Analyst course you will have multiple job opportunities waiting for you. Some of the following Job sectors of Credit Control Analyst are: Credit Controller - £22K to 35K/year. Credit Analyst - £25K to 40K/year. Risk Analyst - £28K to 45K/year. Financial Analyst - £30K to 50K/year. Compliance Officer - £25K to 45K/year. Certificates Digital certificate Digital certificate - Included Will be downloadable when all lectures have been completed.
Get Hard Copy + PDF Certificates + Transcript + Student ID Card worth £180 as a Gift - Enrol Quickbooks Bookkeeping Diploma Now Be fully equipped for a lucrative career and assured future by learning Bookkeeping skilled at using QuickBooks. Take our Advanced Diploma in Quickbooks Online Bookkeeping course, and you'll be trained in the most sought-after accounting skill, as well as being familiar with the industry-standard software. Every successful company has a gifted bookkeeper working on their finances and almost certainly using QuickBooks. This Quickbooks Bookkeeping Diploma course will quickly teach you all the necessary techniques for this form of accounting, with many tips and recommendations on how to customise the software to fit all your business needs. Enrol Quickbooks Bookkeeping now and start your new career in finance. Take this Quickbooks Bookkeeping Diploma course anywhere and at any time. Don't let your lifestyle limit your learning or your potential. With a single payment, you will gain access to Advanced Diploma in Quickbooks Bookkeeping including 10 Career development courses, an original hardcopy certificate, transcript and a student ID card which will allow you to get discounts on things like music, food, travel and clothes etc. Courses are included with this Advanced Diploma in Quickbooks Bookkeeping? Course 01: Diploma in Quickbooks Bookkeeping Course 02: Financial Modeling Using Excel Course 03: Team Management Course 04: Data Analysis in Excel Level 3 Course Course 05: Business Analysis Level 3 Course 06: Accounting and Tax Course 07: Fraud Management & Anti Money Laundering Awareness Complete Diploma Course 08: Time Management Course 09: Performance Management Course 10: Decision Making Course 11: Quality Management Advanced Diploma in Quickbooks Online Bookkeeping will provide you with the CPD certificate that you'll need to succeed. So, enrol Quickbooks Bookkeeping now to advance your career! Course Curriculum of Quickbooks Bookkeeping Course 1: Diploma in Quickbooks Bookkeeping Getting prepared - access the software and course materials Getting started Setting up the system Nominal ledger Customers Suppliers Sales ledger Purchases ledger Sundry payments Sundry receipts Petty cash VAT - Value Added Tax Bank reconciliation Payroll / Wages Reports Tasks The detailed curriculum of the Quickbooks Bookkeeping bundle is given in the resources section. How will I get my Quickbooks Bookkeeping Certificate? After successfully completing the Quickbooks Bookkeeping course you will be able to order your CPD Accredited Certificates (PDF + Hard Copy) as proof of your achievement. PDF Certificate: Free (Previously it was £6*11 = £66) Hard Copy Certificate: Free (For The Title Course: Previously it was £10) So, enrol Quickbooks Bookkeeping now to advance your career! CPD 110 CPD hours / points Accredited by CPD Quality Standards Who is this course for? There is no experience or previous qualifications required for enrolment on this Advanced Diploma in Quickbooks Bookkeeping. It is available to all students, of all academic backgrounds. Requirements Our Advanced Diploma in Quickbooks Bookkeeping is fully compatible with PC's, Mac's, Laptop, Tablet and Smartphone devices. This Quickbooks Bookkeeping course has been designed to be fully compatible on tablets and smartphones so you can access your course on wifi, 3G or 4G. There is no time limit for completing this Quickbooks Bookkeeping course, it can be studied in your own time at your own pace. Career path ***Quickbooks Bookkeeping*** Having this Quickbooks Bookkeeping CPD certificate will increase the value in your CV and open you up to multiple sectors such as Business & Management, Admin, Accountancy & Finance, Secretarial & PA, Teaching & Mentoring etc. Certificates Certificate of completion Digital certificate - Included Certificate of completion Hard copy certificate - Included You will get the Hard Copy certificate for the title course (Diploma in Quickbooks Bookkeeping) absolutely Free! Other Hard Copy certificates are available for £10 each. Please Note: The delivery charge inside the UK is £3.99, and the international students must pay a £9.99 shipping cost.