Utilize the slides and presentations in this module to assist with completing the assignment.  The Excel spreadsheet attached should be utilized to complete the ratio analysis portion of this assignment. A file attachment (in Word) of this assignment is attached. 

• Complete in a Word document in APA format
• Include a cover sheet with the course name, and number, the Assignment title, & value, the instructor’s name, the semester, the student’s names and student numbers, and the due date.
• Cross reference your commentary to the financial analysis
• Complete your financial analysis in ‘Excel’
• Include copies of the financial statements utilized, as appendices.

Steps to complete the Assignment:

1. Choose two publicly traded companies.  Ensure that they are:
   1. In the same industry
   2. Similar size
   3. Similar market
2. Get copies of the most recent annual reports, or financial statements.  Ensure that you have the income statements and balance sheets for three years.  These can be found online from Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX)  www.tmx.com website, the New York Stock Exchange https://nyse.nyx.com/  or the company’s websites.
3. Submit the companies to the professor for approval.  No two teams can choose the same companies; therefore, it is first come first serve.
4. Perform a vertical analysis on both companies.
5. Comment on at least three points, interpreting the data into management information.
6. Perform a horizontal analysis on both companies.
7. Comment on at least three points, interpreting the data into management information.
8. Perform a ratio analysis on both companies.
9. Comment on at least three points, interpreting the data into management information.
10. Find corporate policies or practices information on each of the two companies that might explain one of the trends or variances.  This information can be found in financial news, company press releases, or the MD&A (management discussion and analysis), in the annual reports.