ZU

Economics & Finance Portfolio

Hello!

I'm Zakariya, an aspiring Economics Degree Apprentice undertaking literature reviews and research projects.

Currently studying Mathematics, Economics, and Geography at Sixth Form.

Research & writing

Projects, notes & policy work

Research projectComplete

How Can Mathematics Predict the Value of an Option?

An Introduction to the Black–Scholes Model
August 2026

This paper explores how the Black–Scholes model uses mathematics to determine the theoretical price of European options. It introduces intrinsic and extrinsic value before explaining how dynamic delta hedging and the risk-free arbitrage argument let Black, Scholes, and Merton derive their pricing equation without predicting future stock returns, then examines its assumptions and real-world limitations.

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Research projectComplete

How Have the British and Mongol Empires Influenced the World's Trade and Economy Today?

A Comparative Analysis of Historic Empires & Modern Commerce
2025–2026

This paper compares the trade and economic legacies of two of the largest empires in history. Analyzing their distinct commercial mechanisms, infrastructure, and financial systems, it finds the British built quantifiable institutional networks that still define hubs like London, while the Mongols pioneered concepts such as limited liability, passports, and free trade zones that drove the Age of Exploration.

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Policy analysisIn progress

An Analytical Review of the Rachel Reeves Autumn Budget

An evidence-led assessment of fiscal choices, distributional effects, and the trade-offs facing economic policymakers.

Analysis in development
Policy analysisComing soon

Governmental Policy Analysis

A framework for evaluating how governments translate economic objectives into interventions and measurable outcomes.

Analysis in development

Coding Projects

Software & hardware builds

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About me

This portfolio brings together my literature reviews, research projects, and developing ideas across Economics, Geography, Maths, and History.

I'm Zakariya, a student at Watford Grammar School for Boys working towards an Economics Degree Apprenticeship. I use this space to document my learning, explore questions in depth, and share considered research as it develops.