Description
More on DBs
At the end of each unit, DB participation is assessed based on level of engagement and the quality of the contribution to the discussion. DBs allow learners to learn through sharing ideas and experiences as they relate to course content. Because it is not possible to engage in two-way dialogue after a conversation has ended, no posts to the DB are accepted after the end of the unit. Learners must demonstrate an appropriate depth of understanding of course content to receive credit for having submitted substantive posts. Typically, this is achieved with 3–4 strong paragraphs for Main Posts and 2–3 strong paragraphs for Response Posts.
Assignment Details
Companies strive to establish effective business strategies to differentiate themselves from competitors in their industry.
Compare the most recent strategic initiatives for the two companies that you have chosen for this course. Debate the potential pros and cons of these strategies for each firm.
In your replies to others, share stories related to the companies discussed, and evaluate their business strategies.
In your own words, please post a response to the Discussion Board and comment on other postings. You will be graded on the quality of your postings.
For assistance with your assignment, please use your text, Web resources, and all course materials.
Grading Rubric
Discussion Board Grading Rubric – 60 Points
Assignment Criteria Proficient Descriptor Points
Quality of Main Post
24 Points Total
Student’s main post meets or exceeds the following requirements:
Responds completely to all parts of the discussion question
Communicates content information accurately and/or logically
Delivers a thoughtful response demonstrating insights and reflections
Connects to both key content concepts and personal experiences (if applicable)
Meets or exceeds the required length
/24 pts.
Response to Peers
20 Points Total
Responds to a minimum of two peers (10 points per response)
Substantive response
Furthers the conversation with peers. Examples could include:
Provides additional resources
Connects to key concepts
Shares personal or professional experiences
Contributes new information or perspective
Presents a competing viewpoint
Meets or exceeds the required length
/20 pts.
Support from Learning Resources
6 Points Total
At least one post refers to course learning resources. /6 pts.
Professional Writing
10 Points Total
Response is well-organized, clear, and free of grammatical and mechanical errors.
Posts demonstrate courtesy and respect for others.
/10 pts.
Potential Deductions:
Friday Post Requirement
-6 Points Total No posts were submitted by Friday
Two Separate Days Posted
-6 Points Total Posts were not submitted on at least two separate days
Total 60 points possible /60 pts.
Chapter 1: Overview of Financial Reporting, Financial Statement Analysis, and Valuation
LEARNING OBJEC TIVES
LO 1-1 LO 1-2
Describe the six-step analytical framework that is the logical structure for financial statement analysis and valuation. It is the foundation for this book.
Apply tools for assessing the economic characteristics that drive competition in an industry, including (a) Porter’s five forces framework, (b) value chain analysis, and (c) an economic attributes framework; then identify the firm’s specific strategies for achieving and maintaining competitive advantage within that industry.
LO 1-3 LO 1-4
Explain the purpose, underlying concepts, and format of the balance sheet, income statement, and statement of cash flows, and the importance of accounting quality.
LO 1-5 LO 1-6
Obtain an overview of useful tools for analyzing a firm’s profitability, growth, and risk, including financial ratios, common-size financial statements, and percentage change financial statements, as well as how to use this information to forecast the future business activities of a firm, and to value a firm. Consider the role of financial statement analysis and valuation in an efficient capital market, and review empirical evidence on the association between changes in earnings and changes in stock prices. Become familiar with sources of financial information available for publicly held firms.
Chapter 10: Forecasting Financial Statements
LEARNING OBJEC TIVES
LO 10-1 LO 10-2
Understand the general forecasting principles and the seven steps of the forecasting framework.
Build forecasts of future balance sheets, income statements, and statements of cash flows by applying the seven-step forecasting framework to project a. revenues. b. operating expenses. c. operating assets and liabilities. d. financial leverage, capital structure, and financial income and expense items. e. provisions for taxes, net income, dividends, share repurchases, and retained earnings.
LO 10-3 LO 10-4 LO 10-5
LO 10-6
f. a balance sheet that balances. g. cash flows. Know how and when to use shortcut forecasting techniques. Validate your forecast assumptions and results. Test the sensitivity of your forecasts to variations in critical assumptions and parameters. Build forecast models that are flexible and comprehensive, enabling you to respond quickly and effectively when a company announces important new information
