Certified Financial Management Specialist Practice Exam

Which type of financial analysis is primarily concerned with examining statements at a single point in time?

1. Vertical analysis

2. Horizontal analysis

3. Trend analysis

4. Variance analysis

The correct answer is: Vertical analysis

Vertical analysis is the correct choice because it focuses on analyzing financial statements by expressing each line item as a percentage of a base amount, which allows for comparison within a single period. This method helps to assess the relative size of each component of the financial statements, such as the income statement or balance sheet, by comparing them to a key figure, like total sales or total assets, respectively. This approach is especially useful for understanding the structure of financial statements at a given date, making it easier to identify proportionate relationships and trends within that single time frame. It highlights how well a company is allocating resources at that specific point in time. In contrast, horizontal analysis involves examining trends over multiple periods to identify growth patterns and changes, while trend analysis focuses on long-term movement and patterns in financial data over time. Variance analysis looks at differences between planned financial outcomes and the actual results, emphasizing performance measurement rather than a snapshot of a single timeframe. Each of these other forms of analysis has its own unique purpose and context, differentiating them from vertical analysis.