Trend analysisinvolves comparing a company's financial ratios or metrics over several periods to identify patterns or changes that may indicate performance trends. This approach is essential for evaluating a company's financial health over time and detecting improvements or declines in critical financial metrics.
By analyzing thecurrent ratios-which measure liquidity and the company's ability to cover short-term obligations-with data from prior years, an analyst can determine trends such asincreasing efficiency, solvency, or potential financial stress. This method provides meaningful insights into a company's financial trajectory, supporting better decision-making.
Option B and C are incorrect because they either limit the analysis to a short timeframe or ignore the significance of using a stable and representative base year. Option D deviates from the principle of selecting relevant industry peers.
References:
* Volume 2, Chapter 14: Company Analysis, Trend Analysis,Canadian Securities Course.