Principles of financial analysis

This book is intended for use in introductory college courses in the field of finance. Consequently the materials usually included
in courses known as Corporation Finance or Business Finance are given adequate coverage. However, the word "analysis" in the
title should be stressed. It is the firm conviction of the author that the study of finance can only be really meaningful and can only
serve a worthwhile purpose when the student is taught to analyze and solve the financial problems of business firms. The point of view throughout is that of the financial manager who must be aware of the current condition of the firm, must understand how this condition came into being and must plan for a solvent and prosperous future. Nevertheless the materials and techniques considered are no less appropriate to the professional financial analyst whose job it is to evaluate how successful management
has been in guiding the fortunes of the firm or to the social scientist who is concerned with broader consequences of the way in
which businesses conduct their financial affairs.