The objective of this course is to introduce students to contemporary theory and practice in the area of financial statement analysis and valuation of companies. The course will be taught from the perspective of the primary stock market users of financial statements - the equity financial analysts. The course has a practical orientation and is intended to equip students with skills necessary for conducting comprehensive equity  analysis and writing financial analyst - style equity research reports.

11 x 2-hour lectures

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■ Degree exam - (60%)

■ Group project, including group project report and group peer review report - (40%)

The aim of this course is to introduce students to the analytical tools used and issues involved in analysing the performance, prospects and valuation of firms. The course will also familiarise students with advances in those areas of financial reporting and market-based accounting research, which are highly relevant to the theory and practice of fundamental analysis and equity valuation.

1. Critically evaluate the complexities and challenges of equity research practice and professional actors in the market for information and equity research;

2. Conduct analysis and assessment of companies' business and performance;

3. Critically assess equity valuation theory and apply appropriate forecasting and valuation models;

4. Develop a critical understanding of writing and designing an equity valuation research report;

5. Work collaboratively in a group to produce a combined output, by liaising with other class members, allocating tasks and co-ordinating group meetings.

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.