- the central research question addressed (to include a brief statement of the topic – the topic must clearly relate to finance – and of the issue or problem that motivates the research);
- theoretical background;
- research design, data, and methodology (to include hypothesis/es in the case of quantitative methods, and the methods of measurement and the generative questions that will guide grounded theory building in the case of those using qualitative methods)
- intended results and summary of the evidence of the study so far (to include if applicable an outline of any preliminary findings);
- expected contribution and its significance in the financial field; and
- conclusions, and any remaining concerns or problems to be overcome.