Financial markets are continuously evolving under the influence of technological advancements, globalization, and macroeconomic fluctuations. In this dynamic environment, financial analysis plays a critical role not only in evaluating corporate performance but also in guiding economic and strategic decision-making. This book aims to contribute to the literature by integrating modern analytical methods, empirical applications, and multi-criteria decision-making techniques in finance.

The five chapters in this volume explore diverse dimensions of financial analysis through an interdisciplinary lens:

The first chapter examines the banking sector performance in Next-11 countries using a comparative approach and demonstrates the application of the Entropy-based EDAS method in financial performance evaluation. This study provides an analytical framework for understanding and comparing international banking sector outcomes.

The second chapter evaluates portfolio optimization in the BIST30 index through the Sharpe Index model using empirical data. It illustrates how modern financial techniques can be applied to measure investment performance and optimize the risk-return balance.

The third chapter analyzes volatility spillovers among global financial indicators using the TVP-VAR methodology, offering insights into market interactions and risk transmission mechanisms. The study provides an empirical perspective on the dynamics of international financial markets.

The fourth chapter assesses the financial performance of the Turkish banking sector through multi-criteria decision-making methods (CRITIC, MAIRCA, CRADIS, and MARCOS), offering sectoral comparisons and insights for strategic decision-making processes.

The fifth chapter explores the embedded finance ecosystem in Türkiye and the evolving role of banks within this structure. It discusses how digitalization, fintech collaborations, and open banking systems are transforming financial intermediation, providing a comparative analysis of major platforms and regulatory developments. The study highlights how embedded finance enhances financial inclusion while reshaping traditional banking functions.

This volume serves as a comprehensive reference for academics, researchers, and financial practitioners, offering both theoretical insights and empirical applications. I extend my sincere gratitude to all contributing authors and hope this book will become a valuable resource for readers.

Assist. Prof. Dr. Burhan Erdoğan