What does financial statement analysis involve?

Financial statement analysis involves reviewing and interpreting the information contained within financial statements to make informed decisions about the financial health and performance of a business. This process typically includes examining the balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement to assess metrics such as profitability, liquidity, and solvency.

By analyzing these statements, stakeholders, including investors, creditors, and management, can identify trends, compare performance against benchmarks, and make strategic decisions based on quantitative data. This thorough examination aids in understanding how resources are being utilized and how effectively the organization operates, which is essential for making informed business decisions.

The other choices focus on different aspects of finance or accounting. Evaluating market opportunities pertains to strategic planning and understanding the broader market landscape, while calculating taxes owed is a compliance task related to tax preparation. Preparing financial forecasts involves projecting future financial performance, which is distinct from analyzing past performance as depicted in the financial statements.