In: Finance
The thing that I have learned about forecasting which is different from what I had expected is that forecasting is a proper statistical method that has a mathematical basis to it. As it is a statistical method it seems complex at first but is rather simple once the concepts are understood clearly. There are different methods of forecasting and each method has its pros and cons. The field of forecasting is a highly structured field and finds applications in many areas.
An example of a future job in which I might be able to use forecasting is that of an equity analyst. I aspire to join investment banking industry and as an equity analyst in the industry I will be responsible for valuing different companies. I will have to develop financial models in which I will have to forecast future revenues, expenses and profits of a company. I will also have to forecast the assets and liabilities of a company. Using these forecasts I will develop a forecast of the company’s free cash flows and using the forecasts of the company’s free cash flows I will determine the value of the company.