Pro Forma

What does it Mean? A Latin term meaning "for the sake of form". In the investing world, it describes a method of calculating financial results in order to emphasize either current or projected figures.
Investopedia Says... Pro forma financial statements could be designed to reflect a proposed change, such as a merger or acquisition, or to emphasize certain figures when a company issues an earnings announcement to the public.

Investors should be careful when reading a company's pro-forma financial statements, as the figures may not comply with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). In some cases, the pro-forma figures may differ greatly from the those derived from GAAP.

Terms Related Links

Annual Report
Earnings
Generally Accepted Accounting Principles - GAAP
Goodwill
Pro-Forma Earnings

Terms Related Links
Understanding Pro-Forma Earnings - These figures can either shed light on a company's performance or skew it. Find out why.

Show and Tell: The Importance of Transparency - Clear and honest financial statements not only reflect value, they also help ensure it.

Investment Valuation Ratios: Introduction - An introduction to investment valuation ratios.

What are pro forma earnings?




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