Executing with Excel - How to Think Like a CFO and Use Excel to Make Key Business Decisions
John Walcher, Veritas Advisors, Inc.

Format: MP3 download

Unfortunately, many business people judge the financial success of their companies simply by the balances in their checking accounts at the end of the month. We know how to fix cars. But, do we know how to use financial analysis tools to evaluate business decisions? This course will use case studies to illustrate how simple financial analysis can greatly enhance business decisions.

Four scenarios will be explored in detail:

• Understand how to use Excel effectively and efficiently.
• Learn certain financial and accounting concepts, including Time Value of Money, Discounted Cash Flows, Cost of Capital, cash vs. accrual vs. tax, etc., and how they apply to the average business decision.
• Evaluate the decision making process – from a strictly empirical, financial perspective – for four scenarios:
  A. How to value a business opportunity?
  B. Should I take that prebate or bank loan?
  C. Should I buy the real estate or use the money to open (and lease) another location?
  D. What is my five-year plan?