Financial Analysis with Modelling and Forecasting

Overview:

Introduction:

This training program provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of financial analysis, modelling, and forecasting techniques essential for informed decision-making in corporate finance. It empowers them to enhance strategic planning, optimize resource allocation, and maximize financial performance within their respective organizations.

Program Objectives:

At the end of this program, participants will be able to:

• Apply fundamental financial analysis techniques to interpret financial statements and assess company performance effectively.

• Develop advanced financial models using Excel and other tools to support forecasting, decision-making, and strategic planning.

• Employ various forecasting methods and techniques to predict future financial trends and outcomes accurately.

• Conduct comprehensive financial statement analysis to identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement within organizations.

• Utilize financial modelling insights to make informed investment decisions, evaluate strategic opportunities, and mitigate financial risks.

Targeted Audience:

• Financial analysts.

• Investment bankers.

• Corporate finance professionals.

• Accounting professionals.

• Business analysts.

• Management consultants.

• Professionals involved in budgeting and planning.

• Employees seeking to enhance their financial analysis, modelling, and forecasting skills.

Program Outlines:

Unit 1:

Foundations of Financial Analysis:

• Introduction to financial analysis and its importance in decision-making.

• Understanding financial statements: balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement.

• Financial ratio analysis: liquidity, solvency, profitability, and efficiency ratios.

• Interpretation of financial performance indicators to assess company health.

• Overview of financial analysis tools and software for data analysis.

Unit 2:

Advanced Financial Modelling Techniques:

• Introduction to financial modelling and its role in forecasting and decision-making.

• Building and structuring financial models: assumptions, inputs, and outputs.

• Sensitivity analysis and scenario planning to assess model robustness.

• Incorporating dynamic variables and macros in financial models.

• Best practices for model documentation, version control, and error checking.

Unit 3:

Forecasting Methods and Techniques:

• Overview of forecasting methods: time series analysis, regression analysis, and causal forecasting.

• Data preparation and cleaning for accurate forecasting.

• Building forecasting models using Excel, statistical software, and forecasting tools.

• Evaluating forecast accuracy and refining models based on performance.

• Incorporating qualitative factors and expert judgment into forecasting processes.

Unit 4:

Financial Statement Analysis and Interpretation:

• Advanced analysis of financial statements: trend analysis, common-size analysis, and DuPont analysis.

• Identifying red flags and warning signs in financial statements.

• Analyzing capital structure, leverage, and cost of capital.

• Evaluating company performance relative to industry benchmarks and peers.

• Communicating financial analysis findings effectively to stakeholders.

Unit 5:

Financial Modelling for Decision-Making and Strategy:

• Using financial models to support strategic decision-making and planning.

• Assessing investment opportunities: capital budgeting techniques and investment appraisal.

• Evaluating mergers and acquisitions: financial due diligence and valuation techniques.

• Stress testing and scenario analysis for risk management and contingency planning.

• Integrating financial modelling with business strategy to drive organizational growth and profitability.