Synopses & Reviews
Business is the language of numbers—but not everyone in businesses understands how to read the myriad of financial statements that are necessary. Author Norb Schwarz provides readers with accessible information to understanding financial statements such as annual reports; cash flow statements; income statements; balance sheets and so much more. Filled with accessible information including definition and explanations—this book is essential for all family businesses members who don't have a firm handle on these essential skills.
Review
"This book comes along at a time when paying close attention to the numbers is critical. I applaud Schwarz for showing in a practical, step-by-step manner how to understand financial statements from beginning to end so that the right questions are asked. Anyone who feels "stuck" or ignorant when it comes to understanding the numbers for a business, public or private, will gain great insight and understanding after reading Family Business by the Numbers: How Financial Statements Impact Your Business." —William E. Alt, President and CEO, Tyden Group, Inc. (former Partner, Ernst & Young)
"Family Business by the Numbers is an excellent and highly readable resource for individuals without significant experience in business or financial matters. Schwarz provides a concise yet thorough guide for understanding the business story told through financial statements. Readers will be able to better follow what is happening inside the company. A valuable tool for both successor-owners of family-owned businesses, as well as for trusted advisors of these individuals who would benefit from a greater understanding of what is sure to a most significant asset. " —Evan Kayes, Vice President, Harris Trust and Savings Bank, Chicago, IL
"It need not require a finance degree to unlock the wealth of information buried in your family business' financial statements. I was impressed with the clear, non-technical explanations by which Schwarz helps you understand and analyze financial performance. Whether you are a manager or an inactive owner, Family Business by the Numbers provides the underpinnings necessary for "accounting-challenged" owners to knowledgeably discuss their business' financial results." —Ross W. Nager, CPA, Sentinel Trust Company, Houston, Texas, (formerly Executive Director of the Arthur Andersen Center for Family Business)
Synopsis
A guidebook for understanding financial terms and financial statements
About the Author
Norbert E. Schwarz is a Senior Advisor of the Family Business Consulting Group, Inc. His consulting has focused on estate and financial planning, management, strategic planning, outside boards of directors, and succession planning in multi-generational environments. In addition to his consulting background, Norb has held positions of chairman, chief executive officer, and chief financial officer in a variety of industries including manufacturing, food processing, transportation, agriculture, commercial banking, and insurance. He has been an elected delegate to two White House Conferences on Small Business, has served on the Economic Advisory Committee of the Kansas City Federal Reserve Bank, and currently serves on the boards of several family-owned businesses.
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION * CHAPTER 1 What Are Annual Reports All About? * CHAPTER 2 Overview of the Annual Financial Statement * CHAPTER 3 The Balance Sheet: Overview * CHAPTER 4 The Balance Sheet: Assets * CHAPTER 5 The Balance Sheet: Liabilities and Owners' Equity * CHAPTER 6 The Balance Sheet: Five-Year Comparisons * CHAPTER 7 Income Statement * CHAPTER 8 The Statement: Five-Year Comparisons * CHAPTER 9 The Cash Flow Statement * CHAPTER 10 Financial Ratios and Analysis Tools * CHAPTER 11 Aftermath * CHAPTER 12 The Next Steps * Accounting Terms * Index