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Felipe Garrán
This course presents an introduction to financial statement analysis and its usage when assessing business performance. The first part of the course will focus on understanding the most important financial statements, namely, the balance sheet, the income statement, and the statement of cash flows. We will then focus on how we can understand the financial health and performance of the company by examining a number of important financial ratios that are derived from the financial statements of the company. Finally, we will be able to understand business performance across years comparing main results and indicators extracted from financial statements. Lectures on concepts will be supplemented with numerical examples and suggested readings.
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What's inside
Syllabus
Accounting: the language of business
In week1, we will cover an introduction to the balance sheet as business’ picture, focusing on accounting and its users and how a balance sheet is built. Next, we go on to understand the income and cash flow statements as business movies focusing on their principal accounts. Finally, we integrate the 4 statements using a restaurant as example.
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Syllabus
Accounting: the language of business
In week1, we will cover an introduction to the balance sheet as business’ picture, focusing on accounting and its users and how a balance sheet is built. Next, we go on to understand the income and cash flow statements as business movies focusing on their principal accounts. Finally, we integrate the 4 statements using a restaurant as example.
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Provides an understanding of financial statement analysis and its importance in evaluating business performance
Emphasizes understanding the balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement
Leverages numerical examples and suggested readings to supplement lectures on financial analysis
Covers accounting concepts and their importance in understanding financial statements
Helps develop analytical thinking skills through the examination of financial ratios and indicators
Requires basic knowledge of accounting or willingness to learn the basics
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Reviews summary
Foundational financial accounting analysis
According to students, this course provides a strong foundation in financial accounting concepts, making complex topics like balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow analysis accessible. Learners particularly appreciate the clear explanations and practical examples that help in understanding how to analyze business performance. While the course is largely seen as beneficial for beginners and those needing a solid overview, some found the pace inconsistent or desired more advanced applications. Overall, it's considered a highly valuable introduction.
Pacing varies, potentially fast for some, slow for others.
"For an absolute beginner, I felt the pace was a bit too quick in certain sections, requiring me to re-watch lectures."
"I already had some basic finance knowledge, so parts of the course felt a little slow and repetitive at times."
"Some topics flew by, while others were drawn out. It felt like the pacing was inconsistent for my learning style."
Covers essential financial statements and analysis techniques.
"The syllabus covered all the essential financial statements and ratios that I needed to understand for my role."
"This course gave me a complete overview of financial statement analysis, from balance sheets to cash flows."
"I appreciated how it integrated all the different statements in the final week; it brought everything together nicely."
Ideal starting point for those new to financial accounting.
"As someone with no prior accounting knowledge, this course was perfect for building a foundational understanding."
"It's a great introductory course that doesn't overwhelm you but gives you a solid grasp of the basics."
"If you're just starting out in finance or accounting, this course provides an excellent and easy-to-follow guide."
Strong emphasis on numerical examples and real-world application.
"The numerical examples were incredibly helpful in solidifying my understanding of how to apply financial ratios."
"I appreciated the focus on practical applications of financial statements; it felt very relevant to real business scenarios."
"The integration of the four statements using a restaurant example in Week 1 was a great way to start, very practical."
Concepts are presented clearly, making complex topics easy to grasp.
"The instructor explains everything in a very clear and concise manner, especially important for difficult accounting principles."
"I found the explanations to be crystal clear, especially for someone new to financial accounting. Every topic was explained thoroughly."
"Everything was explained in a very understandable way, making financial accounting less intimidating than I expected."
Some learners found additional resources helpful for depth.
"While good for an introduction, I felt the need to consult additional resources for a deeper dive into certain topics."
"The suggested readings are crucial; without them, the lectures alone might not provide enough detail for everyone."
"I had to do a bit of extra research on my own to truly grasp some of the more nuanced concepts beyond the lectures."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Financial Accounting with these
activities:
Practice Financial Statement Analysis
Show steps
Sharpen analytical skills by applying concepts to real-world financial statements.
Browse courses on
Financial Statement Analysis
Show steps
-
Gather practice problems or case studies.
-
Analyze financial statements to calculate ratios and identify trends.
-
Interpret results and draw conclusions.
Participate in Peer Study Group
Show steps
Foster understanding through discussions, shared perspectives, and mutual support with peers.
Browse courses on
Financial Statement Analysis
Show steps
-
Join or form a study group.
-
Meet regularly to discuss course material and assignments.
-
Share knowledge, ideas, and experiences.
Create Financial Analysis Report
Show steps
Demonstrate proficiency in financial statement analysis by applying knowledge to a comprehensive project.
Browse courses on
Financial Statement Analysis
Show steps
-
Choose a company to analyze.
-
Gather financial data from multiple years.
-
Calculate and interpret key financial ratios.
-
Write a report summarizing findings and recommendations.
Show all three activities
Practice Financial Statement Analysis
Show steps
Sharpen analytical skills by applying concepts to real-world financial statements.
Browse courses on
Financial Statement Analysis
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather practice problems or case studies.
- Analyze financial statements to calculate ratios and identify trends.
- Interpret results and draw conclusions.
Participate in Peer Study Group
Show steps
Foster understanding through discussions, shared perspectives, and mutual support with peers.
Browse courses on
Financial Statement Analysis
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Join or form a study group.
- Meet regularly to discuss course material and assignments.
- Share knowledge, ideas, and experiences.
Create Financial Analysis Report
Show steps
Demonstrate proficiency in financial statement analysis by applying knowledge to a comprehensive project.
Browse courses on
Financial Statement Analysis
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a company to analyze.
- Gather financial data from multiple years.
- Calculate and interpret key financial ratios.
- Write a report summarizing findings and recommendations.
Show all three activities
Career center
Learners who complete Financial Accounting will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Financial Analyst
Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts make informed decisions about whether to buy or sell a company's stock or issue buy and sell recommendations for stocks and other financial instruments to their clients. They evaluate risks and rewards and use financial ratios, models, and other analytical tools to make sound investment decisions. This course will help you build a foundation in understanding how to read and use financial statements, which is the bread and butter of a Financial Analyst's work. It also covers developing financial ratios to better understand the strength of a company.
Investment Banker
Investment Banker
Investment Bankers provide financial advice to corporations, governments, and other organizations. They help clients raise capital, manage risk, and make strategic decisions. They often work with clients to develop and execute mergers and acquisitions. This course will help you build a foundation in understanding how to read and use financial statements, which is the bread and butter of an Investment Banker's work. It also covers developing financial ratios to better understand the strength of a company.
Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) are responsible for overseeing a company's financial operations, including financial planning, budgeting, risk management, and financial reporting. They often work with other executives to make key decisions about the company's future. This course will help you build a foundation in understanding how to read and use financial statements, which is key for any CFO. It also covers developing financial ratios to better understand the strength of a company.
Quantitative Analyst
Quantitative Analyst
Quantitative Analysts develop and use mathematical and statistical models to analyze financial data. They often work with data from financial statements to identify trading opportunities and manage risk. This course will help you build a foundation in understanding how to read and use financial statements, which is a key part of a Quantitative Analyst's work.
Credit Analyst
Credit Analyst
Credit Analysts assess the creditworthiness of individuals and businesses. They analyze financial statements, credit reports, and other information to determine the likelihood that a borrower will repay a loan. This course will help you build a foundation in understanding how to read and use financial statements, which is the bread and butter of a Credit Analyst's work. It also covers developing financial ratios to better understand the strength of a company.
Forensic Accountant
Forensic Accountant
Forensic Accountants investigate financial information to help resolve disputes and uncover fraud. They analyze financial records, interview witnesses, and perform other investigative procedures to uncover fraudulent or suspicious activity. They often work with law enforcement and other professionals to help resolve crimes and disputes. This course will help you build a foundation in understanding how to read and use financial statements, which is the bread and butter of a Forensic Accountant's work. The course also covers developing financial ratios to better understand the strength of a company, which can help when investigating fraud.
Data Analyst
Data Analyst
Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to help businesses make informed decisions. They often work with data from financial statements to identify trends, patterns, and anomalies. This course will help you build a foundation in understanding how to read and use financial statements, which is a key part of a Data Analyst's work.
Tax Accountant
Tax Accountant
Tax Accountants help companies and individuals with tax planning and preparation. They analyze and interpret tax laws, prepare tax returns, review and compile financial records, advise on tax implications of business decisions, and represent their clients before tax authorities. This course will help you build a foundation in understanding how to read and use financial statements, which is the bread and butter of a Tax Accountant's work. The course may also help you better understand the tax implications of business decisions.
Management Consultant
Management Consultant
Management Consultants analyze and solve organizational problems, develop solutions, and implement changes to improve efficiency and productivity. They often work with clients to improve financial performance, develop strategies, and implement technology solutions. This course will help you build a foundation in understanding how to read and use financial statements, which is a key part of a Management Consultant's work.
Auditor
Auditor
Auditors independently examine and evaluate financial information and ensure that it is fairly stated. They often identify and help correct inaccuracies in accounting policies and devise methods for improving recordkeeping. They also complete reports, verify the accuracy of an organization's financial information, and present their findings and recommendations to management. This course will help you build a foundation in understanding how to read and use financial statements, which is the bread and butter of an Auditor's work.
Business Analyst
Business Analyst
Business Analysts identify and solve business problems using data and analysis. They often work with clients to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and make better decisions. This course will help you build a foundation in understanding how to read and use financial statements, which is a key part of a Business Analyst's work.
Accounting Supervisor
Accounting Supervisor
An Accounting Supervisor's job is to supervise a group of accountants, leading, guiding, and generally managing them. They will typically have to develop training and development plans, prepare reports, manage accounts, monitor and maintain financial records, and handle assignments, as well as maintain a budget. This course will help you build a foundation in understanding how to read and use financial statements, which is the bread and butter of an Accounting Supervisor's work. It also covers developing financial ratios to better understand the strength of a company, which can help when you're making important business decisions.
Chief Operations Officer (COO)
Chief Operations Officer (COO)
Chief Operating Officers (COOs) are responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of a company. They often oversee departments such as human resources, manufacturing, engineering, and marketing. They work closely with the CEO to develop and implement the company's strategic plan. This course will help you build a foundation in understanding how to read and use financial statements, which can be helpful for any COO.
Financial Planner
Financial Planner
Financial Planners help individuals and families plan for their financial future. They often work with clients to develop investment strategies, save for retirement, and protect their assets. This course may help you build a foundation in understanding how to read and use financial statements, which can be helpful for a Financial Planner.
Risk Manager
Risk Manager
Risk Managers identify, assess, and manage risks for organizations. They often work with other departments to develop and implement strategies to mitigate risks. This course may help you build a foundation in understanding how to read and use financial statements, which can be helpful for a Risk Manager.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/hpkxl0/financial
Reading list
We've selected 11 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Financial Accounting.
Provides a comprehensive overview of financial statement analysis that is helpful as both a supplemental learning resource for this course and as a reference for professional development.
Save
Provides a practical guide to financial statement analysis and valuation, with a focus on how to use financial statements to make investment decisions.
Is more advanced than the course's material, but provides a thorough treatment of financial statement analysis for those who want to pursue a career in finance.
Provides a broad overview of corporate finance, including a section on financial statement analysis that would be a useful supplement to this course.
Provides a comprehensive overview of financial statement analysis, including a section on financial statement analysis that would be a useful supplement to this course.
Provides a practical approach to financial statement analysis, with a focus on how to use financial statements to make investment decisions.
Provides a comprehensive overview of financial statement analysis, with a focus on how to use financial statements to make business decisions.
Provides a comprehensive overview of accounting principles, including a section on financial statement analysis that would be a useful supplement to this course.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of financial accounting, including a section on financial statement analysis that would be a useful supplement to this course.
Provides a guide to financial statement analysis for investors, focusing on how to use financial statements to make investment decisions.
Provides a basic overview of financial statement analysis for those who are new to the topic.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/hpkxl0/financial
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Effort
5 weeks of study, 25 hours (total)
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Fundação Instituto de Administração
Instructor
Felipe Garrán
Language
English
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Data & Finance for the future. It's comprised of four courses:
- Data Analysis for Business
- Valuation & Strategic Finance
- Financial Accounting (viewing)
- Macroeconomics for Business Management
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