Form 10-K Series: Managements Discussion and Analysis (MD and A) (Course Id 2409)

• Who is this course for?
  This course is designed for anyone needing Continuing Professional Education (CPE), particularly CPAs, accountants, and financial professionals involved in financial reporting and SEC filings.

• What is this course about or what problem does this course solve?
  The course offers a comprehensive understanding of Management’s Discussion and Analysis (MD&A), addressing how to effectively present and interpret financial narratives that provide context to a company’s financial statements.

• How can the knowledge from this course be used?
  Learners can apply this knowledge to identify key elements of MD&A, draft effective disclosures, manage critical accounting estimates, and navigate legal and regulatory challenges in financial reporting.

• Why is this course important to a CPA, Accountant, or IRS Enrolled Agent?
  It is important because MD&A is a crucial part of SEC filings, and understanding how to interpret and draft this section supports accurate financial analysis and compliance with regulatory standards.

• When is this course relevant or timely?
  The course is timely for financial professionals preparing or reviewing Form 10-K filings, especially around annual reporting periods or when staying current with SEC disclosure expectations.

• How is a course like this consumed or used?
  The course is delivered through QAS self-study in a text-based format, with no prerequisites or advance preparation required, and includes review and final exam questions for CPE credit upon passing.

This course provides an in-depth look at Management’s Discussion and Analysis (MD&A), highlighting its critical role as a narrative supplement to financial statements that offers essential context for understanding a company's financial performance and position. It covers key elements of MD&A, such as liquidity, capital resources, and results of operations. The course also presents best practices for drafting effective MD&A as well as common challenges, including managing forward-looking statements, estimating critical accounting estimates, and navigating legal considerations.

NASBA QAS - Text - NASBA Registry - 2409

Course Learning Objectives

• Identify key elements of MD&A
• Distinguish between liquidity and capital resources in MD&A
• Recognize best practices for drafting effective MD&A disclosures
• Identify common challenges in MD&A reporting
• Recognize the significance of critical accounting estimates in MD&A

Chapter 1 - Form 10-K Series: Managements Discussion and Analysis (MD and A)

Course Learning Objectives

Course Overview

Purpose and Importance of MD&A

SEC Requirements Related to MD&A

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Results of Operations

Critical Accounting Estimates

Review Questions

Use of Non-GAAP Measures in MD&A

SEC’s Watchful Eye on MD&A

Best Practices for Drafting MD&A

Common Challenges in MD&A

Conclusion

Review Questions

Glossary of Key Terms