Fundamentals of Financial Analysis

A foundation for financial analysis

This beginner Coursera course is for people who want to assess a company's financial health with confidence. It suits working professionals sharpening their analysis as well as those moving into finance from another field.

Reading the three core statements

The course concentrates on the balance sheet, the income statement and the cash flow statement, which together show a company's position, performance and cash movements. Return on investment and accounting basics round out the toolkit, so each statement is read in context rather than alone.

How to practise

• Take one listed company and read its three statements side by side.
• Write a short health check covering liquidity, profit and cash.
• Revisit the statements each reporting season to track change.