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 LexisNexis. 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:
- Capital IQA unique platform combing detailed information on investment banking, private equity, corporations, investment management, professional services, and brokerage. Their coverage of private company financials is the most complete of any business database.
- Almanac of Business and Industrial Financial RatiosAlmanac of Business and Industrial Financial Ratios
(by CCH) -- ILR Library (Catherwood), HF 5681 R25 T861 - Industry Norms and Key Business RatiosIndustry Norms and Key Business Ratios
ILR Library (Ives Hall) HF5681.R25 D89
- BizminerProvides detailed industry analysis and market research reports on more than 16,000 lines of business in national and local markets. Their many uses include valuation, business plans, due diligence and competitive benchmarking. Industry reports cover profit and loss, balance sheets, financial ratios, start-up trends, and more. Financial reports allow you to compare businesses in a specific sales class and geographic area to industry average benchmarks and competitors.
- Annual Statement StudiesAnnual Statement Studies (by RMA) -- Management Library, Ready Reference, HF 5681 B2 R63
- E-Statement StudiesE-Statement Studies is the online version of the Annual Statement Studies.
US and Local Industry/Market Financial Reports
- BizMinerBizMiner 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
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.
- Mergent OnlineCovers over 10,000 US public companies and includes their SEC filings with valuable financial information. Some international company coverage is also included. Access to current and historical annual reports for US and international public companies. Also provides peer group comparisons and "as-reported" financial statements.
- 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.