The module provides an introduction to financial statement analysis techniques and the valuation of firms using financial statement data. An introduction to various valuation models is followed by an introduction to fundamental analysis techniques. An analysis of accounting and financial reporting policies is also performed to enhance the understanding of the firm. The module takes the view that investors may profit from the adoption of an active investment strategy based on fundamental analysis. The module will cover the following topics: valuation models, horizontal and vertical financial statement analysis of time series data; financial ratio calculation and interpretation including capital market data; cash flow statement analysis; forecasting methods; determinants of accounting information quality; equity risk and the cost of capital for financial statement analysis.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Identify and apply equity valuation techniques;
Describe and discriminate between various financial statement analysis techniques;
Critically assess the relationships between forecasting, accounting quality and the valuation of the firm;
Identify and summarise the impact of financial reporting decisions and choices on future earnings
Assessment
Assessment Methods & Exceptions
Assessment: One group poster presentation (10%), one individual 1,500 word report related to the presentation (40%) one two hour exam (50%) Reassessment: N/A