Fundamental analysis is a method used to evaluate the intrinsic value of a stock by examining various financial and economic factors. Here are the key components:
Financial Statements: Analysts review a company’s income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement to assess its financial health. Key metrics include:
Economic Indicators: Broader economic factors such as GDP growth, inflation, and unemployment rates are considered to understand the market environment.
Industry Conditions: The company’s position within its industry, including competitive advantages and market share, is evaluated.
Management Effectiveness: The quality and experience of the company’s leadership team can significantly impact its performance.
Valuation Ratios: Ratios like price-to-earnings (P/E), earnings per share (EPS), and return on equity (ROE) help determine if a stock is overvalued or undervalued1.
Fundamental analysis aims to identify stocks that are trading for less than their intrinsic value, making them potential investment opportunities. Conversely, it can also signal when a stock is overvalued and might be a good candidate for selling.