How to Read an Income Statement – Walmart Example

Learn how to read, understand and analyze an income statement in an enticing and applied way. First, we go over the income statement basics for beginners, then we continue with a thorough, more advanced, step-by-step analysis of an income statement of Walmart, the world’s largest retailer, by using Walmart’s annual public report, which will help with your investment decisions. If you are an investor, entrepreneur, executive, business student, or simply curious, this course will enrich your learning with income statement analysis and insights. In addition to learning an useful skill of how to read, understand and analyze and income statement, you will also learn from the company analysis of Walmart. Reading and understanding an income statement will help you develop strategic thinking, leadership and decision-making skills, which are necessary if you want to get promoted in your career or succeed in your own business, or in an executive position. Income statement is a key indicator of profitability of a company, and by reading, understanding and analyzing it, you will be well prepared for making strategic decisions. When looking at an income statement, financial analysts calculate ratios. You will learn about the most important financial ratio, how to calculate it by using the information on the income statement, and how to apply it for the overall company analysis. This knowledge is important for investors, business owners and executives. Knowing how to read, understand and analyze an income statement will improve your financial and business literacy. It will also help you develop strategic thinking, analytical, problem solving and decision making skills. It will also enable you to make solid investment decisions and stay informed about the companies financial results, profits and losses, presented on the income statement in the annual public report. You will be able to make successful decisions when investing in stock at the stock market, be a successful leader of a company or successfully start and manage your own business. Presented by Liliya Lyubman.