Evaluating Sources and Uses of Cash
Learning Outcome Statement:
analyze and interpret both reported and common-size cash flow statements
Summary:
This LOS focuses on evaluating the sources and uses of cash by analyzing cash flow statements, both reported and common-size. It involves assessing cash flows from operating, investing, and financing activities, and understanding the primary determinants within each category. The evaluation includes analyzing the relationship between net income and operating cash flow, the sustainability of cash flows, and the implications of cash flow patterns on a company's financial health and strategic decisions.
Key Concepts:
Major Sources and Uses of Cash Flow
Identifying the primary sources (like operating activities) and uses (such as investing and financing activities) of cash. For mature companies, operating activities should ideally be the main source, whereas growth-stage companies might rely on financing activities initially.
Determinants of Operating Cash Flow
Analyzing factors that affect cash from operations, such as changes in working capital components like receivables, inventory, and payables, and comparing operating cash flow to net income to assess earnings quality.
Determinants of Investing Cash Flow
Evaluating each line item in the investing section to understand cash spent on long-term assets like property, plant, and equipment, or cash received from selling such assets.
Determinants of Financing Cash Flow
Reviewing each component in the financing section to determine whether the company is raising new capital or repaying existing obligations, and assessing the nature of these capital transactions.
Formulas:
Free Cash Flow to the Firm (FCFF)
FCFF represents the cash flow available to all capital providers, both debt and equity holders, after the company has met all operating expenses and investments.
Variables:
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- Earnings Before Interest and Taxes
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- Applicable tax rate
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- Depreciation expense
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- Investments in long-term assets
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- Net change in working capital components
Free Cash Flow to Equity (FCFE)
FCFE represents the cash flow available to equity holders after all expenses, taxes, and operational cash needs are met, and after accounting for cash flows to and from debt holders.
Variables:
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- Free Cash Flow to the Firm
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- Interest expenses minus interest income
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- Applicable tax rate
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- Difference between new debt raised and debt repayments