How to Read a Cash Flow Statement (Investors Guide)
How to read a cash flow statement: operating cash flow, investing cash flow, financing cash flow, and why investors focus on free cash flow.
Cash flow > accounting
Cash flow statements show actual cash moving in/out. Investors use it to validate whether earnings are real and sustainable.
Three sections
- Operating cash flow: cash from core business
- Investing cash flow: capex/acquisitions
- Financing cash flow: debt, dividends, buybacks
Reason: cash funds shareholder returns
Dividends and buybacks come from cash, not accounting profits.
Connect cash flow to intrinsic value
DCF and owner earnings depend on cash generation.
FAQs
Why can cash flow differ from earnings?▼
Timing differences, non-cash expenses, working capital changes, and capex can all create gaps between earnings and cash.
What is the key cash flow metric for investors?▼
Free cash flow is often a top metric because it reflects cash left after necessary reinvestment.
Related
Intrinsic Investor is for education and research only. Not financial advice.