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Question 1
1.1. List and discuss the diverse range of stakeholders utilizing organizations' financial
statements.
Introduction
Financial statements play a crucial role in providing insight into a company's financial health and
performance. They serve as essential tools for a diverse range of stakeholders who rely on them for
decision-making, financial planning, and regulatory compliance. These statements, which include the
statement of financial performance, the statement of financial position, the statement of shareholders'
changes in equity, and the statement of cash flows, offer valuable information about a firm's
activities. The following discussion highlights the various stakeholders who utilize financial
statements and their specific interests in these reports.
Shareholders
Shareholders depend on financial statements to assess the worth of their investment in a company.
As the primary financiers of a business, they need assurance that their investment is generating
satisfactory returns. Financial statements provide crucial data that helps them evaluate the company's
profitability and growth potential. The financial manager's primary objective is to maximize
shareholder wealth by enhancing the market value of shares.
Management
Company management relies on financial statements to plan and control the firm's activities
effectively. These statements are instrumental in decision-making processes, helping managers
devise strategies that align with the organization’s objectives. Additionally, financial managers use
these reports to develop budgets, allocate resources, and track performance, ensuring the company
remains financially stable and competitive.
Lenders and Creditors
Lenders and creditors, such as banks and financial institutions, use financial statements to assess a
company's creditworthiness and ability to repay loans. They analyze key financial indicators, such as
liquidity ratios and debt levels, to determine the risk of default. These insights help lenders decide
whether to extend credit and under what terms.
Labour Unions
Labour unions utilize financial statements to negotiate fair wages and benefits for employees. By
examining a company's financial performance, they can assess the organization’s profitability and
financial capacity to support wage increases, improved working conditions, and other employee
benefits.
Investment Analysts
Investment analysts scrutinize financial statements to evaluate a firm's potential for growth and
profitability. These professionals analyze metrics like earnings per share (EPS) and revenue trends to
provide recommendations to investors. Their insights guide investors in making informed decisions
regarding buying, holding, or selling stocks.