US and Local Industy/Market Financial Reports
- BizMiner
BizMiner offers granular industry statistical reports that provide industry financial analysis benchmarks for more than 5,000 lines of business and industry market trends on thousands more. Market analysis reports are available at the national and local levels down to the zip code. Micro Firm Profit-Loss Reports cover sole proprietorships and start-ups which is ideal for those writing business plans and looking to benchmark financials
Private Company Financial Data
If the company is private, little or no specific financial information beyond sales figures may be available about the company. Try to find articles via Factiva or Nexis Uni. Both contain thousands of full-text newspapers and business periodicals; you may be able to locate articles which quote company officials discussing the firm's finances.
Also, consider using ratio books. They will allow you to create your financials using industry averages. Several Cornell libraries have the print copies of these recommended books:
- Industry Norms and Key Business RatiosIndustry Norms and Key Business Ratios
ILR Library (Ives Hall) HF5681.R25 D89 - Annual Statement StudiesAnnual Statement Studies (by RMA) -- Management Library, Ready Reference, HF 5681 B2 R63
Understanding Financial Statements
Are you just starting to become familiar with the term "balance sheet"? If yes, you might want to read Merril Lynch's excellent guide to "Understanding Financial Reports."
Public Company Financial Data
Public companies are required to file detailed reports of financial activity. In the US, these filings are available directly from the SEC (the Securities and Exchange Commission), or via the selected databases listed below.
- Capital IQIdeal for both private and publicly traded company research. Find company financials, deals, customers, and supplier information. Benchmark against peers and the market. When looking for potential investments, use the company screener to filter for specific performance metrics.
- Gale Business: InsightsExtensive reference content from Gale's core business collection; easy-to-use company fundamentals and investment research reports; industry rankings, profiles, market share data, company histories, and more.