{"id":254,"date":"2018-09-24T15:11:49","date_gmt":"2018-09-24T15:11:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-osintrobus\/chapter\/analyzing-financial-statements\/"},"modified":"2018-10-12T18:21:39","modified_gmt":"2018-10-12T18:21:39","slug":"analyzing-financial-statements","status":"publish","type":"chapter","link":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-herkimer-osintrobus\/chapter\/analyzing-financial-statements\/","title":{"raw":"Analyzing Financial Statements","rendered":"Analyzing Financial Statements"},"content":{"raw":"
    \r\n \t
  1. How can ratio analysis be used to identify a firm\u2019s financial strengths and weaknesses?<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n

    Individually, the balance sheet, income statement, and statement of cash flows provide insight into the firm\u2019s operations, profitability, and overall financial condition. By studying the relationships among the financial statements, however, one can gain even more insight into a firm\u2019s financial condition and performance. A good way to think about analyzing financial statements is to compare it a fitness trainer putting clients through various well-established assessments and metrics to determine whether a specialized fitness program is paying dividends for the person in terms of better strength, endurance, and overall health. Financial statements at any given time can provide a snapshot of a company\u2019s overall health. Company management must use certain standards and measurements to determine whether they need to implement additional strategies to keep the company fit and making a profit.<\/p>\r\n

    Ratio analysis<\/strong> involves calculating and interpreting financial ratios using data taken from the firm\u2019s financial statements in order to assess its condition and performance. A financial ratio states the relationship between financial data on a percentage basis. For instance, current assets might be viewed relative to current liabilities or sales relative to assets. The ratios can then be compared over time, typically three to five years. A firm\u2019s ratios can also be compared to industry averages or to those of another company in the same industry. Period-to-period and industry ratios provide a meaningful basis for comparison, so that we can answer questions such as, \u201cIs this particular ratio good or bad?\u201d<\/p>\r\n

    It\u2019s important to remember that ratio analysis is based on historical data and may not indicate future financial performance. Ratio analysis merely highlights potential problems; it does not prove that they exist. However, ratios can help managers monitor the firm\u2019s performance from period to period to understand operations better and identify trouble spots.<\/p>\r\n

    Ratios are also important to a firm\u2019s present and prospective creditors (lenders), who want to see if the firm can repay what it borrows and assess the firm\u2019s financial health. Often loan agreements require firms to maintain minimum levels of specific ratios. Both present and prospective shareholders use ratio analysis to look at the company\u2019s historical performance and trends over time.<\/p>\r\n

    Ratios can be classified by what they measure: liquidity, profitability, activity, and debt. Using Delicious Desserts\u2019 2018 balance sheet and income statement ((Figure)<\/a><\/strong> and (Figure)<\/a><\/strong>), we can calculate and interpret the key ratios in each group. (Figure)<\/a><\/strong> summarizes the calculations of these ratios for Delicious Desserts. We\u2019ll now discuss how to calculate the ratios and, more important, how to interpret the ratio value.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

    \r\n

    Liquidity Ratios<\/h3>\r\n

    Liquidity ratios<\/strong> measure the firm\u2019s ability to pay its short-term debts as they come due. These ratios are of special interest to the firm\u2019s creditors. The three main measures of liquidity are the current ratio, the acid-test (quick) ratio, and net working capital.<\/p>\r\nThe current ratio<\/strong> is the ratio of total current assets to total current liabilities. Traditionally, a current ratio of 2 (\ud83d\udcb22 of current assets for every \ud83d\udcb21 of current liabilities) has been considered good. Whether it is sufficient depends on the industry in which the firm operates. Public utilities, which have a very steady cash flow, operate quite well with a current ratio well below 2. A current ratio of 2 might not be adequate for manufacturers and merchandisers that carry high inventories and have lots of receivables. The current ratio for Delicious Desserts for 2018, as shown in (Figure)<\/a><\/strong>, is 1.4. This means little without a basis for comparison. If the analyst found that the industry average for small bakeries was 2.4, Delicious Desserts would appear to have low liquidity.\r\n\r\nThe acid-test (quick) ratio<\/strong><\/span> is like the current ratio except that it excludes inventory, which is the least-liquid current asset. The acid-test ratio is used to measure the firm\u2019s ability to pay its current liabilities without selling inventory. The name acid-test<\/em> implies that this ratio is a crucial test of the firm\u2019s liquidity. An acid-test ratio of at least 1 is preferred. But again, what is an acceptable value varies by industry. The acid-test ratio is a good measure of liquidity when inventory cannot easily be converted to cash (for instance, if it consists of very specialized goods with a limited market). If inventory is liquid, the current ratio is better. Delicious Desserts\u2019 acid-test ratio for 2018 is 1.1. Because the bakery\u2019s products are perishable, it does not carry large inventories. Thus, the values of its acid-test and current ratios are fairly close. At a manufacturing company, however, inventory typically makes up a large portion of current assets, so the acid-test ratio will be lower than the current ratio.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
    Table 14.4<\/caption>\r\n
    Ratio Analysis for Delicious Desserts at Year-End 2018<\/th>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    Ratio<\/th>\r\nFormula<\/th>\r\nCalculation<\/th>\r\nResult<\/th>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/thead>\r\n
    Liquidity Ratios<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    Current ratio<\/td>\r\n\\(\\frac{\\text{Total current assets}}{\\text{Total current liabilities}}\\)<\/td>\r\n\\(\\frac{\\text{\ud83d\udcb283,200}}{\ud83d\udcb260,150}\\)<\/td>\r\n1.4<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    Acid-test (quick) ratio<\/td>\r\n\\(\\frac{\\text{Total current assets\u2013inventory}}{\\text{Total current liabilities}}\\)<\/td>\r\n\\(\\frac{\\text{\ud83d\udcb283,200}-\\text{\ud83d\udcb215,000}}{\ud83d\udcb260,150}\\)<\/td>\r\n1.1<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    Net working capital<\/td>\r\n\\(\\text{Total current assets}\u2013\\text{Total current liabilities}\\)<\/td>\r\n\\(\ud83d\udcb283,200-\ud83d\udcb260,150\\)<\/td>\r\n\ud83d\udcb223,050<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    Profitability Ratios<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    Net profit margin<\/td>\r\n\\(\\frac{\\text{Net profit}}{\\text{Net sales}}\\)<\/td>\r\n\\(\\frac{\\text{\ud83d\udcb232,175}}{\ud83d\udcb2270,500}\\)<\/td>\r\n11.9%<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    Return on equity<\/td>\r\n\\(\\frac{\\text{Net profit}}{\\text{Total owners' equity}}\\)<\/td>\r\n\\(\\frac{\\text{\ud83d\udcb232,175}}{\\text{\ud83d\udcb278,750}}\\)<\/td>\r\n40.9%<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    Earnings per share<\/td>\r\n\\(\\frac{\\text{Net profit}}{\\text{Number of shares of common stock outstanding}}\\)<\/td>\r\n\\(\\frac{\\text{\ud83d\udcb232,175}}{\\text{10,000}}\\)<\/td>\r\n\ud83d\udcb23.22<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    Activity Ratio<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    Inventory turnover<\/td>\r\n\\(\\frac{\\text{Cost of goods sold}}{\\text{Average inventory}}\\)<\/td>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    <\/td>\r\n\\(\\frac{\\text{Cost of goods sold}}{\\left(\\text{Beginning inventory}+\\text{Ending inventory}\\right)\/2}\\)<\/td>\r\n\\(\\frac{\ud83d\udcb2112,500}{\\left(\ud83d\udcb218,000+\ud83d\udcb215,000\\right)\/2}\\)<\/td>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    <\/td>\r\n<\/td>\r\n\\(\\frac{\ud83d\udcb2112,500}{\ud83d\udcb216,500}\\)<\/td>\r\n6.8 times<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    Debt Ratio<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    Debt-to-equity ratio<\/td>\r\n\\(\\frac{\\text{Total liabilities}}{\\text{Owners' equity}}\\)<\/td>\r\n\\(\\frac{\\text{\ud83d\udcb270,150}}{\\text{\ud83d\udcb278,750}}\\)<\/td>\r\n89.1%<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\nNet working capital<\/strong>, though not really a ratio, is often used to measure a firm\u2019s overall liquidity. It is calculated by subtracting total current liabilities from total current assets. Delicious Desserts\u2019 net working capital for 2018 is \ud83d\udcb223,050. Comparisons of net working capital over time often help in assessing a firm\u2019s liquidity.\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n
    \r\n

    Profitability Ratios<\/h3>\r\n

    To measure profitability, a firm\u2019s profits can be related to its sales, equity, or stock value. Profitability ratios<\/strong> measure how well the firm is using its resources to generate profit and how efficiently it is being managed. The main profitability ratios are net profit margin, return on equity, and earnings per share.<\/p>\r\n

    The ratio of net profit to net sales is the net profit margin<\/strong>, also called return on sales.<\/em> It measures the percentage of each sales dollar remaining after all expenses, including taxes, have been deducted. Higher net profit margins are better than lower ones. The net profit margin is often used to measure the firm\u2019s earning power. \u201cGood\u201d net profit margins differ quite a bit from industry to industry. A grocery store usually has a very low net profit margin, perhaps below 1 percent, whereas a jewelry store\u2019s net profit margin would probably exceed 10 percent. Delicious Desserts\u2019 net profit margin for 2018 is 11.9 percent. In other words, Delicious Desserts is earning 11.9 cents on each dollar of sales.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

    \r\n\r\n[caption id=\"\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1300\"]\"Photograph Exhibit 14.8<\/strong> For giant retailers such as Macy\u2019s, the high expense of operating a brick-and-mortar store counters the elevated markup on merchandise, resulting in slim profit margins. Because competition forces marketers to keep prices low, it is often a retailer\u2019s cost-cutting strategy, not initial markup or sales volume, that determines whether a business will be profitable. What expenses other than payroll and the cost of merchandise affect a retailer\u2019s net profit margin? (Credit: Mike Mozart\/ Flickr\/ Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0))[\/caption]\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n

    The ratio of net profit to total owners\u2019 equity is called return on equity (ROE)<\/strong>. It measures the return that owners receive on their investment in the firm, a major reason for investing in a company\u2019s stock. Delicious Desserts has a 40.9 percent ROE for 2018. On the surface, a 40.9 percent ROE seems quite good. But the level of risk in the business and the ROE of other firms in the same industry must also be considered. The higher the risk, the greater the ROE investors look for. A firm\u2019s ROE can also be compared to past values to see how the company is performing over time.<\/p>\r\n

    Earnings per share (EPS)<\/strong> is the ratio of net profit to the number of shares of common stock outstanding. It measures the number of dollars earned by each share of stock. EPS values are closely watched by investors and are considered an important sign of success. EPS also indicates a firm\u2019s ability to pay dividends. Note that EPS is the dollar amount earned by each share, not the actual amount given to stockholders in the form of dividends. Some earnings may be put back into the firm. Delicious Desserts\u2019 EPS for 2018 is \ud83d\udcb23.22.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n

    \r\n

    Activity Ratios<\/h3>\r\n

    Activity ratios<\/strong> measure how well a firm uses its assets. They reflect the speed with which resources are converted to cash or sales. A frequently used activity ratio is inventory turnover. The inventory turnover ratio<\/strong> measures the speed with which inventory moves through the firm and is turned into sales. It is calculated by dividing cost of goods sold by the average inventory. (Average inventory is estimated by adding the beginning and ending inventories for the year and dividing by 2.) Based on its 2018 financial data, Delicious Desserts\u2019 inventory, on average, is turned into sales 6.8 times each year, or about once every 54 days (365 days \u00f7 6.8). The acceptable turnover ratio depends on the line of business. A grocery store would have a high turnover ratio, maybe 20 times a year, whereas the turnover for a heavy equipment manufacturer might be only three times a year.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n

    \r\n

    Debt Ratios<\/h3>\r\n

    Debt ratios<\/strong> measure the degree and effect of the firm\u2019s use of borrowed funds (debt) to finance its operations. These ratios are especially important to lenders and investors. They want to make sure the firm has a healthy mix of debt and equity. If the firm relies too much on debt, it may have trouble meeting interest payments and repaying loans. The most important debt ratio is the debt-to-equity ratio.<\/p>\r\n

    The debt-to-equity ratio<\/strong> measures the relationship between the amount of debt financing (borrowing) and the amount of equity financing (owners\u2019 funds). It is calculated by dividing total liabilities by owners\u2019 equity. In general, the lower the ratio, the better. But it is important to assess the debt-to-equity ratio against both past values and industry averages. Delicious Desserts\u2019 ratio for 2018 is 89.1 percent. The ratio indicates that the company has 89 cents of debt for every dollar the owners have provided. A ratio above 100 percent means the firm has more debt than equity. In such a case, the lenders are providing more financing than the owners.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

    \r\n

    Key Takeaways<\/h3>\r\n
    \r\n
      \r\n \t
    1. How can ratio analysis be used to interpret financial statements?<\/li>\r\n \t
    2. Name the main liquidity and profitability ratios, and explain what they indicate.<\/li>\r\n \t
    3. What kinds of information do activity ratios give? Why are debt ratios of concern to lenders and investors?<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n
      \r\n

      Summary of Learning Outcomes<\/h3>\r\n
        \r\n \t
      1. How can ratio analysis be used to identify a firm\u2019s financial strengths and weaknesses?<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n

        Ratio analysis is a way to use financial statements to gain insight into a firm\u2019s operations, profitability, and overall financial condition. The four main types of ratios are liquidity ratios, profitability ratios, activity ratios, and debt ratios. Comparing a firm\u2019s ratios over several years and comparing them to ratios of other firms in the same industry or to industry averages can indicate trends and highlight financial strengths and weaknesses.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n

        \r\n

        Glossary<\/h3>\r\n
        \r\n \t
        acid-test (quick) ratio<\/dt>\r\n \t
        The ratio of total current assets excluding inventory to total current liabilities; used to measure a firm\u2019s liquidity.<\/dd>\r\n<\/dl>\r\n
        \r\n \t
        activity ratios<\/dt>\r\n \t
        Ratios that measure how well a firm uses its assets.<\/dd>\r\n<\/dl>\r\n
        \r\n \t
        current ratio<\/dt>\r\n \t
        The ratio of total current assets to total current liabilities; used to measure a firm\u2019s liquidity.<\/dd>\r\n<\/dl>\r\n
        \r\n \t
        debt ratios<\/dt>\r\n \t
        Ratios that measure the degree and effect of a firm\u2019s use of borrowed funds (debt) to finance its operations.<\/dd>\r\n<\/dl>\r\n
        \r\n \t
        debt-to-equity ratio<\/dt>\r\n \t
        The ratio of total liabilities to owners\u2019 equity; measures the relationship between the amount of debt financing (borrowing) and the amount of equity financing (owner\u2019s funds).<\/dd>\r\n<\/dl>\r\n
        \r\n \t
        earnings per share (EPS)<\/dt>\r\n \t
        The ratio of net profit to the number of shares of common stock outstanding; measures the number of dollars earned by each share of stock.<\/dd>\r\n<\/dl>\r\n
        \r\n \t
        inventory turnover ratio<\/dt>\r\n \t
        The ratio of cost of goods sold to average inventory; measures the speed with which inventory moves through a firm and is turned into sales.<\/dd>\r\n<\/dl>\r\n
        \r\n \t
        liquidity ratios<\/dt>\r\n \t
        Ratios that measure a firm\u2019s ability to pay its short-term debts as they come due.<\/dd>\r\n<\/dl>\r\n
        \r\n \t
        net profit margin<\/dt>\r\n \t
        The ratio of net profit to net sales; also called return on sales. It measures the percentage of each sales dollar remaining after all expenses, including taxes, have been deducted.<\/dd>\r\n<\/dl>\r\n
        \r\n \t
        net working capital<\/dt>\r\n \t
        The amount obtained by subtracting total current liabilities from total current assets; used to measure a firm\u2019s liquidity.<\/dd>\r\n<\/dl>\r\n
        \r\n \t
        profitability ratios<\/dt>\r\n \t
        Ratios that measure how well a firm is using its resources to generate profit and how efficiently it is being managed.<\/dd>\r\n<\/dl>\r\n
        \r\n \t
        ratio analysis<\/dt>\r\n \t
        The calculation and interpretation of financial ratios using data taken from the firm\u2019s financial statements in order to assess its condition and performance.<\/dd>\r\n<\/dl>\r\n
        \r\n \t
        return on equity (ROE)<\/dt>\r\n \t
        The ratio of net profit to total owners\u2019 equity; measures the return that owners receive on their investment in the firm.<\/dd>\r\n<\/dl>\r\n<\/div>","rendered":"
          \n
        1. How can ratio analysis be used to identify a firm\u2019s financial strengths and weaknesses?<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

          Individually, the balance sheet, income statement, and statement of cash flows provide insight into the firm\u2019s operations, profitability, and overall financial condition. By studying the relationships among the financial statements, however, one can gain even more insight into a firm\u2019s financial condition and performance. A good way to think about analyzing financial statements is to compare it a fitness trainer putting clients through various well-established assessments and metrics to determine whether a specialized fitness program is paying dividends for the person in terms of better strength, endurance, and overall health. Financial statements at any given time can provide a snapshot of a company\u2019s overall health. Company management must use certain standards and measurements to determine whether they need to implement additional strategies to keep the company fit and making a profit.<\/p>\n

          Ratio analysis<\/strong> involves calculating and interpreting financial ratios using data taken from the firm\u2019s financial statements in order to assess its condition and performance. A financial ratio states the relationship between financial data on a percentage basis. For instance, current assets might be viewed relative to current liabilities or sales relative to assets. The ratios can then be compared over time, typically three to five years. A firm\u2019s ratios can also be compared to industry averages or to those of another company in the same industry. Period-to-period and industry ratios provide a meaningful basis for comparison, so that we can answer questions such as, \u201cIs this particular ratio good or bad?\u201d<\/p>\n

          It\u2019s important to remember that ratio analysis is based on historical data and may not indicate future financial performance. Ratio analysis merely highlights potential problems; it does not prove that they exist. However, ratios can help managers monitor the firm\u2019s performance from period to period to understand operations better and identify trouble spots.<\/p>\n

          Ratios are also important to a firm\u2019s present and prospective creditors (lenders), who want to see if the firm can repay what it borrows and assess the firm\u2019s financial health. Often loan agreements require firms to maintain minimum levels of specific ratios. Both present and prospective shareholders use ratio analysis to look at the company\u2019s historical performance and trends over time.<\/p>\n

          Ratios can be classified by what they measure: liquidity, profitability, activity, and debt. Using Delicious Desserts\u2019 2018 balance sheet and income statement ((Figure)<\/a><\/strong> and (Figure)<\/a><\/strong>), we can calculate and interpret the key ratios in each group. (Figure)<\/a><\/strong> summarizes the calculations of these ratios for Delicious Desserts. We\u2019ll now discuss how to calculate the ratios and, more important, how to interpret the ratio value.<\/p>\n

          \n

          Liquidity Ratios<\/h3>\n

          Liquidity ratios<\/strong> measure the firm\u2019s ability to pay its short-term debts as they come due. These ratios are of special interest to the firm\u2019s creditors. The three main measures of liquidity are the current ratio, the acid-test (quick) ratio, and net working capital.<\/p>\n

          The current ratio<\/strong> is the ratio of total current assets to total current liabilities. Traditionally, a current ratio of 2 (\ud83d\udcb22 of current assets for every \ud83d\udcb21 of current liabilities) has been considered good. Whether it is sufficient depends on the industry in which the firm operates. Public utilities, which have a very steady cash flow, operate quite well with a current ratio well below 2. A current ratio of 2 might not be adequate for manufacturers and merchandisers that carry high inventories and have lots of receivables. The current ratio for Delicious Desserts for 2018, as shown in (Figure)<\/a><\/strong>, is 1.4. This means little without a basis for comparison. If the analyst found that the industry average for small bakeries was 2.4, Delicious Desserts would appear to have low liquidity.<\/p>\n

          The acid-test (quick) ratio<\/strong><\/span> is like the current ratio except that it excludes inventory, which is the least-liquid current asset. The acid-test ratio is used to measure the firm\u2019s ability to pay its current liabilities without selling inventory. The name acid-test<\/em> implies that this ratio is a crucial test of the firm\u2019s liquidity. An acid-test ratio of at least 1 is preferred. But again, what is an acceptable value varies by industry. The acid-test ratio is a good measure of liquidity when inventory cannot easily be converted to cash (for instance, if it consists of very specialized goods with a limited market). If inventory is liquid, the current ratio is better. Delicious Desserts\u2019 acid-test ratio for 2018 is 1.1. Because the bakery\u2019s products are perishable, it does not carry large inventories. Thus, the values of its acid-test and current ratios are fairly close. At a manufacturing company, however, inventory typically makes up a large portion of current assets, so the acid-test ratio will be lower than the current ratio.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
          Table 14.4<\/caption>\n
          Ratio Analysis for Delicious Desserts at Year-End 2018<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n
          Ratio<\/th>\nFormula<\/th>\nCalculation<\/th>\nResult<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
          Liquidity Ratios<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          Current ratio<\/td>\n\\(\\frac{\\text{Total current assets}}{\\text{Total current liabilities}}\\)<\/td>\n\\(\\frac{\\text{\ud83d\udcb283,200}}{\ud83d\udcb260,150}\\)<\/td>\n1.4<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          Acid-test (quick) ratio<\/td>\n\\(\\frac{\\text{Total current assets\u2013inventory}}{\\text{Total current liabilities}}\\)<\/td>\n\\(\\frac{\\text{\ud83d\udcb283,200}-\\text{\ud83d\udcb215,000}}{\ud83d\udcb260,150}\\)<\/td>\n1.1<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          Net working capital<\/td>\n\\(\\text{Total current assets}\u2013\\text{Total current liabilities}\\)<\/td>\n\\(\ud83d\udcb283,200-\ud83d\udcb260,150\\)<\/td>\n\ud83d\udcb223,050<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          Profitability Ratios<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          Net profit margin<\/td>\n\\(\\frac{\\text{Net profit}}{\\text{Net sales}}\\)<\/td>\n\\(\\frac{\\text{\ud83d\udcb232,175}}{\ud83d\udcb2270,500}\\)<\/td>\n11.9%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          Return on equity<\/td>\n\\(\\frac{\\text{Net profit}}{\\text{Total owners’ equity}}\\)<\/td>\n\\(\\frac{\\text{\ud83d\udcb232,175}}{\\text{\ud83d\udcb278,750}}\\)<\/td>\n40.9%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          Earnings per share<\/td>\n\\(\\frac{\\text{Net profit}}{\\text{Number of shares of common stock outstanding}}\\)<\/td>\n\\(\\frac{\\text{\ud83d\udcb232,175}}{\\text{10,000}}\\)<\/td>\n\ud83d\udcb23.22<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          Activity Ratio<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          Inventory turnover<\/td>\n\\(\\frac{\\text{Cost of goods sold}}{\\text{Average inventory}}\\)<\/td>\n<\/td>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          <\/td>\n\\(\\frac{\\text{Cost of goods sold}}{\\left(\\text{Beginning inventory}+\\text{Ending inventory}\\right)\/2}\\)<\/td>\n\\(\\frac{\ud83d\udcb2112,500}{\\left(\ud83d\udcb218,000+\ud83d\udcb215,000\\right)\/2}\\)<\/td>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          <\/td>\n<\/td>\n\\(\\frac{\ud83d\udcb2112,500}{\ud83d\udcb216,500}\\)<\/td>\n6.8 times<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          Debt Ratio<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          Debt-to-equity ratio<\/td>\n\\(\\frac{\\text{Total liabilities}}{\\text{Owners’ equity}}\\)<\/td>\n\\(\\frac{\\text{\ud83d\udcb270,150}}{\\text{\ud83d\udcb278,750}}\\)<\/td>\n89.1%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

          Net working capital<\/strong>, though not really a ratio, is often used to measure a firm\u2019s overall liquidity. It is calculated by subtracting total current liabilities from total current assets. Delicious Desserts\u2019 net working capital for 2018 is \ud83d\udcb223,050. Comparisons of net working capital over time often help in assessing a firm\u2019s liquidity.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

          \n

          Profitability Ratios<\/h3>\n

          To measure profitability, a firm\u2019s profits can be related to its sales, equity, or stock value. Profitability ratios<\/strong> measure how well the firm is using its resources to generate profit and how efficiently it is being managed. The main profitability ratios are net profit margin, return on equity, and earnings per share.<\/p>\n

          The ratio of net profit to net sales is the net profit margin<\/strong>, also called return on sales.<\/em> It measures the percentage of each sales dollar remaining after all expenses, including taxes, have been deducted. Higher net profit margins are better than lower ones. The net profit margin is often used to measure the firm\u2019s earning power. \u201cGood\u201d net profit margins differ quite a bit from industry to industry. A grocery store usually has a very low net profit margin, perhaps below 1 percent, whereas a jewelry store\u2019s net profit margin would probably exceed 10 percent. Delicious Desserts\u2019 net profit margin for 2018 is 11.9 percent. In other words, Delicious Desserts is earning 11.9 cents on each dollar of sales.<\/p>\n

          \n
          \"Photograph<\/p>\n

          Exhibit 14.8<\/strong> For giant retailers such as Macy\u2019s, the high expense of operating a brick-and-mortar store counters the elevated markup on merchandise, resulting in slim profit margins. Because competition forces marketers to keep prices low, it is often a retailer\u2019s cost-cutting strategy, not initial markup or sales volume, that determines whether a business will be profitable. What expenses other than payroll and the cost of merchandise affect a retailer\u2019s net profit margin? (Credit: Mike Mozart\/ Flickr\/ Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0))<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

          The ratio of net profit to total owners\u2019 equity is called return on equity (ROE)<\/strong>. It measures the return that owners receive on their investment in the firm, a major reason for investing in a company\u2019s stock. Delicious Desserts has a 40.9 percent ROE for 2018. On the surface, a 40.9 percent ROE seems quite good. But the level of risk in the business and the ROE of other firms in the same industry must also be considered. The higher the risk, the greater the ROE investors look for. A firm\u2019s ROE can also be compared to past values to see how the company is performing over time.<\/p>\n

          Earnings per share (EPS)<\/strong> is the ratio of net profit to the number of shares of common stock outstanding. It measures the number of dollars earned by each share of stock. EPS values are closely watched by investors and are considered an important sign of success. EPS also indicates a firm\u2019s ability to pay dividends. Note that EPS is the dollar amount earned by each share, not the actual amount given to stockholders in the form of dividends. Some earnings may be put back into the firm. Delicious Desserts\u2019 EPS for 2018 is \ud83d\udcb23.22.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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          Activity Ratios<\/h3>\n

          Activity ratios<\/strong> measure how well a firm uses its assets. They reflect the speed with which resources are converted to cash or sales. A frequently used activity ratio is inventory turnover. The inventory turnover ratio<\/strong> measures the speed with which inventory moves through the firm and is turned into sales. It is calculated by dividing cost of goods sold by the average inventory. (Average inventory is estimated by adding the beginning and ending inventories for the year and dividing by 2.) Based on its 2018 financial data, Delicious Desserts\u2019 inventory, on average, is turned into sales 6.8 times each year, or about once every 54 days (365 days \u00f7 6.8). The acceptable turnover ratio depends on the line of business. A grocery store would have a high turnover ratio, maybe 20 times a year, whereas the turnover for a heavy equipment manufacturer might be only three times a year.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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          Debt Ratios<\/h3>\n

          Debt ratios<\/strong> measure the degree and effect of the firm\u2019s use of borrowed funds (debt) to finance its operations. These ratios are especially important to lenders and investors. They want to make sure the firm has a healthy mix of debt and equity. If the firm relies too much on debt, it may have trouble meeting interest payments and repaying loans. The most important debt ratio is the debt-to-equity ratio.<\/p>\n

          The debt-to-equity ratio<\/strong> measures the relationship between the amount of debt financing (borrowing) and the amount of equity financing (owners\u2019 funds). It is calculated by dividing total liabilities by owners\u2019 equity. In general, the lower the ratio, the better. But it is important to assess the debt-to-equity ratio against both past values and industry averages. Delicious Desserts\u2019 ratio for 2018 is 89.1 percent. The ratio indicates that the company has 89 cents of debt for every dollar the owners have provided. A ratio above 100 percent means the firm has more debt than equity. In such a case, the lenders are providing more financing than the owners.<\/p>\n

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          Key Takeaways<\/h3>\n
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          1. How can ratio analysis be used to interpret financial statements?<\/li>\n
          2. Name the main liquidity and profitability ratios, and explain what they indicate.<\/li>\n
          3. What kinds of information do activity ratios give? Why are debt ratios of concern to lenders and investors?<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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            Summary of Learning Outcomes<\/h3>\n
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            1. How can ratio analysis be used to identify a firm\u2019s financial strengths and weaknesses?<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

              Ratio analysis is a way to use financial statements to gain insight into a firm\u2019s operations, profitability, and overall financial condition. The four main types of ratios are liquidity ratios, profitability ratios, activity ratios, and debt ratios. Comparing a firm\u2019s ratios over several years and comparing them to ratios of other firms in the same industry or to industry averages can indicate trends and highlight financial strengths and weaknesses.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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              Glossary<\/h3>\n
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              acid-test (quick) ratio<\/dt>\n
              The ratio of total current assets excluding inventory to total current liabilities; used to measure a firm\u2019s liquidity.<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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              activity ratios<\/dt>\n
              Ratios that measure how well a firm uses its assets.<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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              current ratio<\/dt>\n
              The ratio of total current assets to total current liabilities; used to measure a firm\u2019s liquidity.<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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              debt ratios<\/dt>\n
              Ratios that measure the degree and effect of a firm\u2019s use of borrowed funds (debt) to finance its operations.<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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              debt-to-equity ratio<\/dt>\n
              The ratio of total liabilities to owners\u2019 equity; measures the relationship between the amount of debt financing (borrowing) and the amount of equity financing (owner\u2019s funds).<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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              earnings per share (EPS)<\/dt>\n
              The ratio of net profit to the number of shares of common stock outstanding; measures the number of dollars earned by each share of stock.<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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              inventory turnover ratio<\/dt>\n
              The ratio of cost of goods sold to average inventory; measures the speed with which inventory moves through a firm and is turned into sales.<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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              liquidity ratios<\/dt>\n
              Ratios that measure a firm\u2019s ability to pay its short-term debts as they come due.<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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              net profit margin<\/dt>\n
              The ratio of net profit to net sales; also called return on sales. It measures the percentage of each sales dollar remaining after all expenses, including taxes, have been deducted.<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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              net working capital<\/dt>\n
              The amount obtained by subtracting total current liabilities from total current assets; used to measure a firm\u2019s liquidity.<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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              profitability ratios<\/dt>\n
              Ratios that measure how well a firm is using its resources to generate profit and how efficiently it is being managed.<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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              ratio analysis<\/dt>\n
              The calculation and interpretation of financial ratios using data taken from the firm\u2019s financial statements in order to assess its condition and performance.<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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              return on equity (ROE)<\/dt>\n
              The ratio of net profit to total owners\u2019 equity; measures the return that owners receive on their investment in the firm.<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t
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              Candela Citations<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t
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              CC licensed content, Shared previously<\/div>