Kontantströmsanalys

Kontantströmsanalys, or cash flow analysis, is a financial tool used to assess how a company generates and uses cash over a specified period. It focuses on the actual inflows and outflows of cash, distinguishing itself from accrual-based accounting which records revenues and expenses when earned or incurred.

The analysis typically examines three sections of a cash flow statement: operating activities, investing activities, and financing activities. Operating cash flow reflects the core business operations, investing cash flow shows purchases and sales of long‑term assets, and financing cash flow captures capital raising or repayment, dividends, and changes in short‑term debt.

Methodologically, analysts may use the direct method, listing specific cash receipts and payments, or the indirect method, which starts with net income and adjusts for non‑cash items like depreciation and changes in working capital. The indirect method is more common in practice due to its ease of calculation from existing financial statements.

Key use cases include evaluating liquidity, identifying cash generation efficiency, and forecasting future cash needs. Investors and lenders often scrutinize free cash flow – operating cash flow minus capital expenditures – as a measure of a firm's ability to pay dividends, fund expansion, or reduce debt.

Limitations exist; cash flow statements may mask timing differences, non‑cash financing activities, or extraordinary items. Furthermore, the quality of cash flow information depends on accurate classification of cash movements and consistent reporting practices.

In summary, kontantströmsanalys provides a critical snapshot of a company's liquidity and operational health, complementing income‑statement and balance‑sheet analyses within comprehensive financial reporting.